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NITDA assures Nigerians of access to needed skills to thrive in digital economy

Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of NITDA (2nd left) in a Meeting with Dr. Moruf Tunji Alausa on the Need to Integrate Digital Literacy into Nigerian Education Curriculum, in Abuja, FCT Phito: NITDA

*The National Information Technology Development Agency says it is poised to enable more Nigerians to have access to needed, requisite skills set to succeed in the modern digital economy, restating the agency’s commitment to achieving Digital Literacy for All, and other vital initiatives that have ‘empowered individuals, bridged digital divides, and opened doors of opportunities across Nigeria’

Gbenga Kayode | ñ

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has restated its commitment to enabling all Nigerians to have access to requisite skills set needed to succeed in the modern digital economy.

ñ reports NITDA, in a recent recap of activities for the 2024 noted how the agency has empowered several Nigerians, bridged digital divides, and opened doors of opportunities across the West African country.

The Information Technology (IT) sector regulatory agency, in a piece released via its verified social media account, also stated: “As we enter the new year, we reflect on our commitment to achieving Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL).

“Our initiatives have empowered individuals, bridged digital divides, and opened doors of opportunities across Nigeria.”

It further said: “From strategic partnerships with organisations like NYSC to grassroots training programmes, we are ensuring that every Nigerian—regardless of background—has access to the skills needed to thrive in today’s digital economy.”

Inuwa urges NYSC DL4ALL ‘Champions’ to redouble efforts at training, sensitising Nigerians

In line with the agency’s avowed commitment to actualising this objective, Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, recently urged members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving as Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) Initiative “Champions” to redouble their efforts at training and sensitising Nigerians on the transformative potential of digital literacy in shaping the country’s future.

Inuwa noted the decisive is geared towards bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and fostering an inclusive digital economy.

The Director-General of NITDA, who made the call in his Keynote Address delivered at a gathering for DL4ALL, one of the flagship programmes under NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0).

The NITDA Chief emphasised the initiative focused on grassroots engagement, and seeks to provide underserved communities with essential digital knowledge, empowering individuals to access opportunities in an increasingly digitally-driven world.

Inuwa, in his Keynote Address, also stated: “You are the ambassadors of our shared vision to empower every Nigerian with the knowledge needed to navigate and excel in the digital economy.

“Your dedication and resilience will ensure that no Nigerian is left behind as we build a technologically driven, globally competitive economy.”

Reminding the champions of their critical role in actualising NITDA’s ambition to achieve short-term target of 70 percent digital literacy by 2027, and 95% by 2030, Inuwa further emphasised that the goal inspire confidence, build capacity, and pave the way for a digitally inclusive society.

On positioning Nigeria as a leader in global knowledge economy

The NITDA Chief Executive stressed the DL4ALL initiative aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation-driven economic growth, youth empowerment, and national prosperity.

Inuwa emphasised the far-reaching impact of the initiative, noting “this programme is not just an investment in individuals; it is an investment in our collective future.

“A digitally skilled workforce will not only transform our economy but also position Nigeria as a leader in the global knowledge economy.”

He also noted: “Through your efforts, we will empower millions of Nigerians to unlock their potential, embrace innovation, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“This is our collective responsibility. The digital future we envision for Nigeria begins with the work you will do in your communities. Let us commit ourselves to this cause, knowing that the seeds we plant today will yield a harvest of opportunities for generations to come.”

The Director-General of the agency affirmed NITDA’s commitment to leading Nigeria’s digital transformation and fostering a future where no citizen is left behind.

NITDA disclosed the DL4ALL Champions welcomed Inuwa’s remarks with enthusiasm, as they expressed their readiness to serve as change agents in their assigned communities.

For many, the initiative represents an opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives while gaining experience in leadership and community engagement.

As the champions prepare for deployment to various communities across Nigeria, their responsibilities are to impart knowledge, sensitise communities about the benefits of digital skills in everyday life, including financial inclusion through digital banking, leveraging e-commerce platforms for small businesses, and understanding cybersecurity essentials to navigate the digital space safely.

About DL4ALL initiative

The Digital Literacy for All initiative is a movement that embodies the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility.

The initiative brings together key stakeholders, including NITDA, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the NYSC, and other strategic partners, all working towards the shared goal of fostering digital inclusion.

As part of the initiative, champions received intensive training to prepare them for the field.

This training includes hands-on workshops on digital tools, effective communication strategies for engaging diverse audiences, and techniques for tailoring content to meet the specific needs of different communities.

NITDA stated as these Champions embark on their journey, their efforts are expected to create a ripple effect that will transform lives and communities across Nigeria.

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