Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of T2, Obafemi Banigbe, has stressed that Nigeria’s long-term economic transformation depends on continuous upskilling, digital learning, and workforce adaptability.
Speaking as Special Guest at the 32nd Annual Trainers’ Conference (ATC 2025) of the Nigerian Institute of Training and Development (NITAD), held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, Banigbe warned that without deliberate investment in human capital and technology-driven innovation, Nigeria risks falling behind in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Drawing from personal reflections, practical insights, and a forward-looking vision, Banigbe urged Nigerians to rethink approaches to learning, work, and growth to build a prosperous, inclusive, and innovation-led society. He emphasised that the traditional model of “learning once and working forever” is now obsolete.
“With Nigeria projected to become the world’s third most populous nation by 2050, with 70 percent of its citizens under 30, continuous upskilling, digital learning, and adaptability are not optional—they are existential,” he said.
Obafemi Banigbe highlighted the need to democratise access to digital tools, ensuring every Nigerian child has the same opportunities as peers in developed economies.
He called for the creation of Afrocentric educational content, including culturally relevant cartoons, to help children learn science, mathematics, and history through familiar cultural references rather than foreign identities that disconnect them from their environment.
T2 CEO also advocated for a national shift from a culture that prizes certificates and training hours to one that rewards competence, innovation, and problem-solving.
He envisioned a civil service and workforce driven by solutions rather than processes, noting that while artificial intelligence can analyse and automate, it cannot dream, uphold ethics, or create new nations, a reminder of the enduring human advantage.
Furthermore, T2 CEO Banigbe encouraged the adoption of cost-effective training models such as online platforms, virtual cohorts, and open-source learning, while acknowledging the continued value of global exposure where local resources fall short.
During an interactive question-and-answer session, Banigbe addressed concerns around affordability, accessibility, and the role of self-driven digital education in shaping Nigeria’s future-ready workforce.
He also reaffirmed that T2 is undergoing its own transformation, committed to delivering world-class services as a proudly Nigerian brand.
In recognition of his contribution to national dialogue and thought leadership, NITAD President James Bulus presented Banigbe with an Award of Excellence.
