Digital Bridge Institutes (DBI) has formed a strategic partnership with U.S.-based SBTS Group LLC to empower Nigerian youths with essential digital skills, enabling them to compete in the global market. The collaboration, announced on Friday by DBI’s Head of Public Affairs, Akin Ogunlade, aims to address Nigeria’s digital divide and literacy gaps—key barriers to job creation and economic growth.
Ogunlade stressed that the initiative would leverage SBTS Group’s Intelligent Capacity Building Model (ICBM) and DBI’s strong reputation in ICT training to create thousands of job opportunities within Nigeria and globally. The partnership will offer hands-on training, infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) hubs across DBI campuses.
“This collaboration will equip Nigerians with globally competitive skills and contribute to the country’s active participation in the global digital economy,” Ogunlade stated.
The initiative, supported by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), addresses the significant digital skills gap in Africa, with projections showing that by 2030, over 230 million jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa will require digital expertise. This partnership aims to prepare thousands of Nigerians with the digital skills needed for these opportunities.
Renovations have already started at DBI’s campuses in Enugu and Kano, with plans to expand nationwide. These upgrades will create state-of-the-art facilities for advanced digital training programs. Additionally, the collaboration will incorporate the ICBM framework, supporting the growth of BPO centers and a thriving innovation ecosystem.
David Daser, President of DBI, emphasized that this partnership would not only enhance Nigeria’s position in the global outsourcing market but also help lay the foundation for a prosperous digital economy. The program will offer a campus-based learning experience for trainees and is expected to position Nigeria as a global hub for skilled digital professionals, driving technology adoption and attracting investment across various sectors.
