Digital Skills and Entrepreneurship: The Twin Engines Africa Needs

Africa’s population is its greatest asset and, if we get the next decade wrong, its greatest missed opportunity. By 2030, hundreds of millions of young Africans will be entering the workforce. The question that should keep every policymaker, educator, and business leader on the continent awake at night is simple: what will these young people actually be able to do?

I have spent the last several years building a company around a conviction that shapes everything we do at MODE Digital Creations: Africa’s economic future will not be decided by the resources beneath our soil, but by the skills inside our people. Digital skills training and entrepreneurship are not parallel tracks running alongside economic development — they are the tracks economic development runs on.

The Skills Gap Is Not a Future Problem, It’s a Present One

We often talk about the “future of work” as though it’s a distant horizon. It isn’t. The future of work is already here, and it is digital. Yet across much of Africa, our education systems are still preparing children for an economy that no longer exists in its old form. A student can graduate secondary school having never typed a document, built a spreadsheet, or understood how the internet actually works as a tool for commerce and communication.

This is why we made the decision, from the very start, to focus digital skills training on school-age children rather than waiting until university or the job market to intervene. Skills compound. A twelve-year-old who learns to code, to think computationally, and to see technology as something they can build with — not just consume — carries that advantage for the rest of their working life. We are not just teaching children to use computers; we are teaching them to see themselves as creators, not just consumers, of digital tools.

But training children is only half the equation. Schools themselves are institutions under enormous administrative strain, often run on paper records and manual processes that consume time and resources better spent on teaching. This is why we also build School Management System tools — because digital transformation has to happen at the institutional level too, not just in the classroom. An efficiently run school is a school with more capacity to actually educate.

Entrepreneurship Is the Multiplier

Here is where I think the conversation about Africa’s digital future often falls short: skills alone do not transform economies. Skills need an outlet. And for most young Africans, that outlet will not be a job at a large corporation — it will be a business they build themselves.

Africa already has the highest rate of entrepreneurial activity in the world by necessity. What we lack is not the entrepreneurial spirit but the infrastructure to let that spirit succeed at scale. This is precisely why access to affordable web hosting and domain registration matters so much more than it might appear on the surface. A small trader in Enugu or a tailor in Kano with a website and a registered domain is no longer confined to foot traffic in a local market — they are, in principle, competing and trading on the same internet as businesses anywhere in the world.

When we help small and medium enterprises take their businesses online, we are not just providing a technical service. We are handing them a multiplier. A business with a digital presence can reach customers beyond its immediate geography, build trust through a professional online identity, and operate with the kind of visibility that used to require far more capital than most SMEs have access to.

Where the Two Meet

The real transformation happens where digital skills training and entrepreneurship intersect. A generation trained from childhood to think digitally does not need to be convinced to start online businesses later — it is second nature to them. And an SME support ecosystem that makes it easy and affordable to get online ensures that when these digitally fluent young people are ready to build something, the infrastructure is there to support them.

This is not a theoretical pipeline. It is one we see working in practice: children we have trained who go on to build small digital projects of their own; school administrators who, freed from manual paperwork, invest more energy into curriculum; small business owners who, for the first time, have customers finding them online rather than only through word of mouth.

What Needs to Happen Next

None of this, scales on the effort of individual companies alone. If Africa is serious about turning its demographic weight into economic strength, three things need to happen faster than they currently are:

First, digital literacy needs to be treated as a foundational subject, not an elective — embedded in curricula from primary school, not introduced as an afterthought in secondary school or left entirely to private providers like us to fill the gap.

Second, the cost of digital infrastructure — hosting, domains, payment processing, connectivity — needs to keep coming down, and policy should actively support that, because every naira an SME doesn’t have to spend on infrastructure is a naira it can spend on growth.

Third, we need far more patient capital and support directed at the companies doing this unglamorous, foundational work of digital enablement. The flashy consumer apps get the headlines, but the infrastructure layer — training, tools, and access — is what everything else is built on.

Africa does not need to wait for a future economy to arrive. The tools to build it are already available. What is required now is the discipline to put digital skills and entrepreneurial capability into the hands of as many young Africans as possible, as early as possible, and to keep clearing the path so that what they build can actually reach the world.

That is the work we have committed ourselves to at MODE Digital Creations. It is work I believe every serious stakeholder in Africa’s future needs to be part of.

Davids Ogan is the Managing Director of MODE Digital Creations Limited.

As of tomorrow, June 8, 2025, getting or renewing a driver’s license in Nigeria will cost more. The Joint Tax Board has approved a new pricing structure that raises the cost of a driver’s license for motor vehicles to ₦15,000 for three years and ₦21,000 for five years. For tricycle operators, the fees are set at ₦7,000 and ₦11,000 for the same durations. This change, effective just a day from now, has sparked discussions across the country about its impact on drivers and the economy. If you’re wondering why this Nigeria driver’s license price hike is happening and how it affects you, this article breaks it all down.

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Why the Nigeria Driver’s License Price Hike?

The decision to increase driver’s license fees stems from the need to improve the licensing process. Official statements suggest that the rise covers enhanced security features on licenses and rising production costs. These updates aim to make the system more efficient and secure, addressing long-standing issues like fraud and delays. The Federal Road Safety Corps, working with the Joint Tax Board, believes this adjustment will support better road safety and service delivery across Nigeria.

However, the timing couldn’t be worse for many. With vehicle ownership already a significant expense, this hike adds to the financial pressure on individuals and businesses. Some point out that the process itself—requiring payments for driving school certificates and biometric captures—can push total costs even higher, sometimes exceeding the new official rates.

The Current Licensing Process

Obtaining a driver’s license in Nigeria involves several steps:

1. Fill out forms online.
2. Make payments.
3. Visit designated centers for tests and biometric data collection.

The process can take time, especially in areas where Federal Road Safety Corps offices lack reliable network coverage. Starting June 8, 2025, these steps will follow the new fee structure, and authorities have urged all motor vehicle licensing offices to adopt the changes immediately.

For those renewing their licenses, the option to apply 30 days before expiry remains, offering a chance to plan ahead. Yet, with the increased costs, many are questioning whether the system will truly become more streamlined or if delays will persist.

Economic Context and Broader Impacts

This Nigeria driver’s license price hike comes at a challenging economic moment. Nigeria’s vehicle market is already influenced by import tariffs, with the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan imposing high duties on imported cars. Recent global trade shifts, including potential U.S. auto tariffs, could further drive up vehicle prices, making the new licensing fees feel like an added burden. For tricycle operators and small business owners who rely on affordable transportation, the increase from ₦7,000 to ₦11,000 for a five-year license might strain budgets even more.

The goal is to enhance road safety and compliance, but the economic ripple effects could hit hardest those least able to afford it. As Nigeria navigates these changes, the balance between improved services and accessibility will be key.

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What This Means for Drivers

If you’re planning to get a new driver’s license or renew an existing one, now is the time to act. The new rates take effect tomorrow, so completing the process today could save you money. Visit a National Vehicle Identification Authority office or check the official Federal Road Safety Corps website for the latest details. Be prepared for potential queues and ensure all required documents are ready to avoid delays.

For long-term planning, consider how this Nigeria driver’s license price hike fits into your transportation costs. Whether you drive a car or operate a tricycle, budgeting for the change will be essential moving forward.

Looking Ahead

The Nigeria driver’s license price hike marks a significant shift in how the country manages its road safety infrastructure. While the focus on security and efficiency is commendable, the increased costs highlight the need for a more accessible system. As the policy rolls out, it will be interesting to see how the government addresses public concerns and whether additional support measures emerge.

Stay informed about updates from the Federal Road Safety Corps and the Joint Tax Board. With proper planning, you can navigate this change smoothly. For now, the clock is ticking—tomorrow brings a new era for driver’s licenses in Nigeria.

On May 28, 2025, a devastating incident shook the bustling city of Aba, Abia State, Nigeria, when a massive advertising billboard collapsed near the GIA Event Centre along Aba-Owerri Road, close to Salad Market. The tragic event, triggered by a heavy downpour, claimed the life of a tricycle driver and left several others injured. This catastrophe has sparked urgent conversations about billboard safety, urban planning, and the need for stricter regulations to protect lives. Let us explore the details of the Aba billboard collapse, its impact on the community, and critical safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. By incorporating key safety practices and learning from this incident, we can work toward safer urban environments.

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The Aba Billboard Collapse: What Happened?

On the afternoon of May 28, 2025, a 20-meter-long iron billboard stationed near the GIA Event Centre in Aba gave way after heavy rainfall. The structure, described as a “gigantic” billboard, fell onto several commercial tricycles, commonly known as “Keke,” plying the busy Aba-Owerri Road. According to eyewitness reports and posts on X, the collapse occurred suddenly, trapping passengers and drivers beneath the heavy debris. At least one tricycle driver was confirmed dead, with fears that the death toll could rise as rescue efforts continued. Several others sustained severe injuries, and the incident caused widespread panic in the area.

The collapse was attributed to a combination of factors, including heavy rainfall that may have weakened the billboard’s structural integrity and potential lapses in maintenance or installation standards. Aba, a commercial hub known for its vibrant markets and heavy traffic, relies on tricycles as a primary mode of transportation. The loss of a tricycle driver in this preventable tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures and urban safety regulations to protect commuters and residents.

The Impact of the Billboard Collapse

The Aba billboard collapse sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the dangers posed by poorly maintained urban infrastructure. For the family of the deceased tricycle driver, the loss is immeasurable, and the injured victims face long recovery periods. The incident also disrupted traffic along Aba-Owerri Road, one of the city’s busiest routes, causing economic losses for local businesses and commuters. Beyond the immediate human and economic toll, the tragedy has raised critical questions about the safety of billboards in urban areas, particularly in regions prone to heavy rainfall and other environmental stressors.

This incident is not an isolated one. Similar billboard collapses have occurred in other parts of Nigeria and globally, often due to inadequate structural integrity, poor maintenance, or failure to adhere to urban safety regulations. The Aba tragedy serves as a wake-up call for local authorities, billboard operators, and urban planners to prioritize safety and prevent future loss of life.

Why Do Billboards Collapse?

Billboard collapses can result from a variety of factors, many of which are preventable with proper oversight and maintenance. Here are some common causes:

• Poor Structural Integrity: Billboards, especially large ones like the 20-meter structure in Aba, must be designed to withstand environmental pressures such as wind, rain, and storms. Weak foundations, substandard materials, or improper installation can compromise structural integrity, leading to catastrophic failures.
• Lack of Maintenance: Billboards require regular inspections to ensure they remain stable over time. Rust, corrosion, or wear and tear can weaken metal structures, especially in areas with frequent rainfall like Aba.
• Environmental Factors: Heavy rainfall, strong winds, or other extreme weather conditions can exert significant pressure on billboards, particularly if they are not designed to withstand such forces.
• Regulatory Oversights: In some cases, billboards are erected without proper permits or adherence to urban safety regulations. Unregulated installations increase the risk of collapse, as seen in the Aba incident.
• Human Error: Improper installation by unqualified contractors or failure to follow engineering standards can lead to structural failures.

The Aba billboard collapse likely resulted from a combination of these factors, with heavy rainfall acting as the immediate trigger. Addressing these issues requires a proactive approach to billboard safety, focusing on prevention and accountability.

Safety Measures to Prevent Future Billboard Collapses

To avoid tragedies like the Aba billboard collapse, stakeholders must implement robust safety measures. Below are actionable steps to enhance billboard safety and protect lives:

1. Strengthen Structural Integrity Standards
   Billboards must be designed and constructed to meet rigorous engineering standards. This includes using high-quality materials, ensuring deep and stable foundations, and designing structures to withstand local weather conditions. In Aba, where heavy rainfall is common, billboards should be engineered to resist water-induced corrosion and wind pressure. Regular structural audits by certified engineers can identify weaknesses before they lead to collapse.
2. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedules
   Billboard operators must establish routine maintenance programs to inspect structures for signs of wear, rust, or damage. Maintenance checks should be conducted at least quarterly, with additional inspections after extreme weather events. For example, after heavy rainfall, operators should assess the structural integrity of billboards to ensure they remain safe.
3. Enforce Urban Safety Regulations
   Local governments play a critical role in ensuring billboard safety. Authorities in Aba and other cities must enforce strict urban safety regulations, requiring permits for all billboard installations. These regulations should mandate compliance with engineering standards, regular inspections, and immediate removal of unsafe structures. Violators should face penalties to deter negligence.
4. Conduct Risk Assessments for Billboard Locations
   Billboards should not be placed in high-risk areas, such as locations prone to flooding or heavy traffic zones where a collapse could endanger lives. Before installation, operators should conduct risk assessments to evaluate environmental and human factors. In the case of Aba, the billboard’s proximity to a busy road with tricycle traffic increased the tragedy’s impact.
5. Educate and Train Stakeholders
   Billboard operators, contractors, and local officials should receive training on best practices for billboard installation and maintenance. This includes understanding load-bearing capacities, weather resistance, and emergency response protocols. Public awareness campaigns can also educate communities about reporting unsafe billboards.
6. Leverage Technology for Monitoring
   Advanced technologies, such as sensors and drones, can monitor billboard stability in real time. Sensors can detect structural weaknesses or shifts in foundation, while drones can perform visual inspections in hard-to-reach areas. Implementing these tools can enhance safety and reduce the risk of collapse.
7. Establish Emergency Response Plans
   In the event of a collapse, rapid response is critical to saving lives. Local authorities should develop emergency response plans for billboard-related incidents, including coordination with rescue teams, hospitals, and traffic management agencies. In Aba, faster response times could have minimized the tragedy’s impact.

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The Role of Community Advocacy

The Aba billboard collapse has sparked outrage on platforms like X, where users expressed grief and called for accountability. Community advocacy is essential for driving change. Residents can report unsafe billboards, demand stricter regulations, and hold local authorities accountable. By raising awareness about urban safety regulations and the importance of structural integrity, communities can prevent future tragedies.

Lessons from Other Incidents

The Aba incident is not the first of its kind. In 2019, a billboard collapse in Lagos, Nigeria, injured several people, highlighting similar issues with structural integrity and regulatory oversight. Globally, cities like Mumbai, India, and São Paulo, Brazil, have faced billboard collapses due to strong winds or poor maintenance. These incidents underscore the universal need for robust safety measures and proactive urban planning.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action

The tragic loss of a tricycle driver in the Aba billboard collapse is a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting safety. To honor the victims and prevent future disasters, stakeholders must act swiftly. Billboard operators should invest in high-quality materials and regular maintenance, while local governments must enforce urban safety regulations. Communities, too, have a role to play by advocating for safer urban environments.

Conclusion

The Aba billboard collapse is a heartbreaking tragedy that could have been prevented with proper safety measures. By prioritizing structural integrity, enforcing urban safety regulations, and implementing regular maintenance, we can protect lives and prevent similar incidents. The loss of a tricycle driver and the injuries sustained by others serve as a call to action for all stakeholders—government, operators, and communities—to work together for safer cities. Let’s learn from this tragedy and build a future where urban infrastructure enhances, rather than endangers, lives.