Nokia to Build 5G/4G Test Lab in Nigeria, Partners NCC to Train Young Tech Talents

Nigeria’s digital future received a boost this week with a collaboration between the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Nokia Solutions and Networks Nigeria. The partnership will see Nokia establish a cutting-edge 5G/4G test lab and train young Nigerians on the latest mobile network technologies.

This initiative aligns with the Nigerian government’s vision of fostering a robust digital economy.

The state-of-the-art 5G/4G test lab, housed within the Nigerian Communications Commission’s Digital Parks, will provide students with hands-on experience with the latest technologies in mobile network infrastructure. This practical training will be crucial for preparing young Nigerians for careers in the rapidly evolving telecoms sector.

The program extends beyond the 5G/4G test lab. Nokia Nigeria, through its Entrepreneur Learning Programme, will equip 200 students across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones with high-quality vocational training.

This broader initiative aims to cultivate a pipeline of tech talent equipped with the skills to not only contribute to existing telecom companies but also to potentially launch their own tech ventures in the future.

The collaboration between NCC and Nokia is a significant step towards achieving Nigeria’s digitalization goals. By equipping young Nigerians with the necessary knowledge and skills, this program will empower them to play a leading role in shaping the country’s digital landscape. The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating it advances the vision to “enhance the capacity and skill-set of Nigerians” in the dynamic telecom industry.

Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the NCC, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the program’s alignment with the commission’s objective to drive digital literacy and cultivate a strong base of technical talent across the nation. This partnership between the public and private sectors presents a promising path for Nigeria to bridge the digital skills gap and propel the country towards a future driven by innovation and technological advancement.