Engausa advocates digital inclusion to combat cyber addiction among youths

The Chief Executive Officer, Engausa Global Tech Hub, Engr. Mustapha Habu Ringim has emphasized the need to leverage cyber addiction for economic empowerment.

Ringim stated this over the weekend at a Youth Empowerment and Opportunity Summit held in Kano.

He outlined how digital inclusion can transform unproductive internet use into meaningful career opportunities for young people.

Addressing the audience, Engr. Ringim explained that cyber addiction, characterized by excessive social media use, online gaming, and aimless browsing, has become a major concern, leading to wasted potential and a lack of motivation for offline jobs.

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However, he noted that with the right training, mentorship, and infrastructure, these online habits could be redirected into lucrative digital careers.

SolaceBase reports that to harness the potential of digitally inclined youths, Engr. Ringim called for increased access to technology, government and private sector collaboration, and a structured support system for digital entrepreneurship.

He highlighted several key career paths in the digital economy, including freelancing, cybersecurity, e-commerce, affiliate marketing, and digital entrepreneurship.

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‘’Over the past five years, Engausa Global Tech Hub has trained over 6,000 youths in tech-related skills and created more than 8,000 jobs across Nigeria and neighbouring countries,’’ he said.

Some of the success stories from the initiative include Khulsum Photo Speak, a young female photographer who gained recognition and financial independence through her photography brand; Sulnaj Perfumes, a perfume brand that expanded its reach using digital marketing strategies; and BK MASA, a traditional masa (rice cake) business that successfully transitioned into e-commerce.

Engausa has also incubated over 535 startups, awarded more than 2,500 scholarships, and expanded from one to four training centers.

In addition, the organization has launched the Engausa Academy App, providing affordable digital education, and developed innovative products, including a digital power bank and a rechargeable rural device.

Acknowledging the impact of Engausa’s initiatives, Kano Entrepreneurs Hub expressed gratitude to Engr. Ringim for his contributions to youth empowerment. They urged stakeholders to embrace digital skills training to create sustainable employment opportunities.

Engr. Ringim concluded by calling for a nationwide effort to integrate digital, financial, and educational inclusion, transforming cyber addiction into an engine for economic growth and sustainable development.