The Abeokuta Polo Club has launched a three-day digital skills training programme for 120 youths in Ogun State, equipping participants with knowledge in Artificial Intelligence (AI), coding and web development as part of activities marking the club’s first anniversary.
The initiative, which attracted participants from different parts of the state, is designed to empower young people with practical digital competencies needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world and contribute meaningfully to economic development.
Speaking at the opening of the programme on Monday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the President of Abeokuta Polo Club, Dr Sheriff Abdulrahman, said the training underscores the club’s commitment to youth empowerment, innovation and human capital development.
He noted that digital literacy and emerging technologies have become essential tools for success in today’s economy, stressing that young people must be equipped with relevant skills to remain competitive and take advantage of new opportunities created by technological advancement.
“Today marks another important step in our commitment to youth empowerment, innovation, and human capital development,” Abdulrahman said.
“We believe that the future belongs to those who possess the knowledge and skills to leverage technology for economic growth, entrepreneurship, and societal advancement.”
According to him, the club recognises the growing importance of technology across sectors and remains committed to initiatives that prepare youths for the demands of the future workplace.
“At Abeokuta Polo Club, we are passionate about creating opportunities that equip our young people with relevant digital skills needed to compete and thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world,” he said.
“This training is designed to expose participants to cutting-edge technologies and practical knowledge that can open doors to employment, business creation, and global opportunities.”
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Abdulrahman added that the programme goes beyond technical instruction, noting that it is also aimed at inspiring innovation, encouraging entrepreneurship, and building confidence among participants as they explore opportunities within the digital system.
He reaffirmed the club’s commitment to partnering with government institutions and other stakeholders to advance youth development through strategic collaboration capable of driving innovation and economic growth.
“We also wish to reaffirm our commitment to partnering with the Ogun State Government and other stakeholders in promoting youth development and advancing various sectors of our economy through effective Public-Private Partnerships,” he said.
“We believe that meaningful collaboration between government and private institutions remains one of the most effective ways to accelerate innovation, create jobs, and improve the quality of life of our people.”
He urged participants to make full use of the training opportunity, saying the skills acquired could serve as a foundation for future careers and entrepreneurial ventures.
As an incentive, he disclosed that the 10 best-performing participants would receive additional training in horse riding and be supported to develop as polo players.
Also speaking, the ICT/Welfare Officer of Abeokuta Polo Club and Registrar of Chrisland University, Mr Samuel Omotoso, said the programme was designed to address the growing need for digital competence among young Nigerians.
He explained that the club selected areas such as Artificial Intelligence literacy, vibe coding and web development due to their relevance to emerging global technological trends and future employment opportunities.
“It is always the wish of the Abeokuta Polo Club to identify with the needs and aspirations of contemporary issues, and that is why, as part of programmes marking our first anniversary, we have decided to empower 120 youths in the area of Artificial Intelligence literacy, Vibe coding and web development,” Omotoso said.
He added that investing in young people remains critical to sustainable development and preparing communities for the opportunities and challenges of the digital age.
In his remarks, the Orunto of Owu Kingdom and founding member of the club, Chief Abiodun Lasile, described the initiative as commendable, noting that it would strengthen the digital capacity of participants and enhance their contribution to national development.
Lasile said technology-focused training has become increasingly important as digital skills are now essential across industries and professions.
The programme forms part of activities marking the first anniversary of the Abeokuta Polo Club and highlights its growing involvement in community development beyond sports and recreation.
With increasing emphasis on digital transformation across Nigeria and the global economy, the initiative is expected to expose participants to emerging technologies while creating pathways for employment, entrepreneurship and lifelong learning.
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