News Highlights:
- Darey.io and Xterns.ai launched in Nigeria to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, equipping Nigerians with world-class digital skills.
- Founder Dare Olufunmilayo highlighted partnerships with the government’s 3MTT program and industry leaders to train and integrate three million Nigerians into the global digital economy.
In a significant move set to transform Nigeria’s technology landscape, Darey.io and Xterns.ai have officially launched, signaling a new era in tech talent development and career-building.
The highly anticipated event, held in Lagos, brought together key stakeholders, including tech leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and aspiring digital professionals.
Speaking at the launch, Founder and CEO of Darey.io, Dare Olufunmilayo, described the moment as more than just the opening of a new office but the beginning of a transformative movement.
“Today is not just about celebrating a new office space; it is about launching a movement, a revolution in how we learn, build careers, and create opportunities in the tech ecosystem,” he stated.
A Vision Turned Reality
Reflecting on the journey that led to this milestone, Olufunmilayo highlighted the company’s mission to empower Africans with world-class digital skills and bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.
“A few years ago, we started with a bold vision: to empower Africans with world-class digital skills and bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.
“We believed that, with the right platform, the right training, and the right mindset, anyone—no matter their background—could go from learning to earning in the global digital economy.”
That vision, he emphasized, has now become a reality. “Thousands of Nigerians have started their careers through Darey.io, working for top global companies, launching startups, and creating ground-breaking solutions.”
With the launch of Xterns.ai, the initiative is taking an even greater leap forward. “Xterns.ai is our next big leap—where we don’t just train talents; we integrate them directly into the workforce through our Proof-of-Skills Hiring model,” Olufunmilayo explained.
Collaboration as the Key to Growth
The theme of the event, “Tech & Tea: Brewing Nigeria’s Technology Innovation Future,” underscored the importance of collaboration in building a thriving digital economy.
Olufunmilayo likened the process to brewing the perfect cup of tea, requiring the right mix of talent, innovation, and partnerships.
“Just like brewing the perfect tea, building a thriving digital economy requires the right ingredients: talent, innovation, and collaboration,” he noted.
He also acknowledged the critical role of various stakeholders, including the Nigerian government, tech leaders, and industry partners.
“None of this would be possible without the ecosystem we are a part of. The government’s 3MTT initiative is playing a crucial role in creating a future-ready workforce,” he said, recognizing the contributions of government efforts, partners, and the dedicated Darey.io team.
A Future of Impact and Innovation
The event featured real-life stories of individuals whose careers have been transformed through Darey.io’s platform, as well as discussions on policy, innovation, and talent development.
Olufunmilayo emphasized the goal of ensuring Nigeria’s digital economy scales beyond expectations. “Today, we will share stories of impact—real people whose lives have been transformed through this platform. We will engage in critical discussions on policy, innovation, and talent development to ensure Nigeria’s digital economy scales beyond expectations,” he remarked.
As a highlight of the event, attendees were given a first-hand look at the next evolution of Darey.io and Xterns.ai, demonstrating how the platform is reshaping hiring by matching skilled professionals with global opportunities.
Olufunmilayo made a rallying call to all stakeholders, emphasizing their collective role in shaping the future. “So, whether you’re a learner, an entrepreneur, an investor, or a policymaker, you are a key part of this journey. Nigeria is rising as a tech powerhouse, and together, we will shape the future.”
Meanwhile, the Darey.io/Xterns.ai founder has reaffirmed his commitment to talent development through the launch of the Xterns.ai initiative and a strategic partnership with the government’s 3MTT program.
The initiative, which focuses on equipping Nigerians with industry-ready technical and soft skills, is poised to bridge the skills gap and foster a robust digital economy.
Vision for Talent Development and the Xterns.ai Initiative
Expressing his excitement about the future, Olufunmilayo emphasized the importance of expanding Nigeria’s talent pool by nurturing both existing and emerging tech professionals.
“It’s not just about acquiring technical skills; we need a workforce that understands collaboration, communication, and problem-solving,” he stated.
The Xterns.ai initiative aims to provide aspiring tech professionals with hands-on experience through structured internships while equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the global market.
To ensure an optimal learning environment, the newly launched tech hub will serve as a collaborative space for sprint planning, retrospectives, and daily stand-ups. Olufunmilayo stressed that such structures are critical in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry-driven solutions.
Partnership with 3MTT and Government Collaboration
Olufunmilayo also shed light on his partnership with the Federal Government’s Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, which seeks to train and integrate three million Nigerians into the digital economy. Through this collaboration, participants will have access to structured learning paths, digital engagement tracking, and progress monitoring.
To facilitate access for learners, the Dare Olufunmilayo Human Capital Foundation has been launched to provide laptops and stipends for those who may not afford them.
“Passion and interest should be the primary requirements for joining this initiative, not financial limitations,” he said, adding that partnerships with the private sector will further enhance the initiative’s reach by supporting learners with infrastructure and financial assistance.
Certification and Student Enrolment
Olufunmilayo highlighted the significance of globally recognized certifications in advancing career prospects. Through partnerships with Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, and Google, participants will have access to certification programs that validate their expertise.
Over the past four and a half years, Darey.io has trained more than 5,000 individuals, and with the 3MTT partnership, enrolment has now surpassed 100,000. “Our goal remains three million trained professionals, and through this partnership, we are making that a reality,” he said.
The initiative offers free training, ensuring that learners gain industry-standard qualifications without financial barriers.
Challenges and Government Support
Addressing concerns about government support for providing essential tools such as laptops, Olufunmilayo acknowledged the government’s efforts but pointed out the limitations posed by high costs.
“The government is doing its best, but the demand is enormous. This is why private sector involvement is crucial,” he explained. He reiterated the need for corporate organizations to step in and support talent development by investing in tools and resources that make learning accessible to all.
Beyond digital tools, he emphasized the importance of in-person collaboration, stating that innovation thrives when individuals interact and work together in shared spaces.
The Role of Industry Professionals and the Need for Collaboration
Explaining the motivation behind establishing the hub, Olufunmilayo stressed that while online learning is valuable, it has limitations. “Collaboration is key to innovation. Virtual learning alone cannot replace the value of in-person engagement,” he noted.
To enhance the learning experience, the hub will host industry professionals from leading companies such as Microsoft and Google. This blend of physical and virtual learning, he explained, will ensure that participants receive hands-on mentorship and real-world insights, positioning them for success in the tech industry.
As Nigeria continues to position itself as a global tech powerhouse, initiatives like Xterns.ai and partnerships such as 3MTT will play a critical role in shaping the future of the country’s digital economy.
Olufunmilayo remains confident that through collaboration, innovation, and commitment, Nigeria can produce world-class talent capable of competing on a global scale.
Analysts say with the successful launch of Darey.io and Xterns.ai, Nigeria’s digital workforce is set for a transformative shift, as innovation, skills, and collaboration take centre stage in the nation’s tech evolution.