Nigeria’s federal government has set an ambitious national target: achieving 95% digital literacy by 2030, as announced by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) this week. The comprehensive initiative, revealed at a high-level policy committee meeting in Abuja, is part of a broader digital transformation strategy designed to reshape workforce skills, enhance public sector efficiency, and accelerate economic diversification through technology.
According to sources in Nigeria, NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasized the urgency of integrating digital literacy and emerging technology skills into the country’s formal education system. Speaking at the Stakeholders Dialogue and High-Level Policy Committee meeting, Inuwa outlined the agency’s mandate—directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—to reach a midterm goal of 70% digital literacy by 2027, before achieving 95% by 2030. “We cannot do it alone. But we believe, with you, we can do it. That is why we are exploring this partnership, to work with you, to build digital literacy and skills curricula in our formal education,” Inuwa stated, highlighting the need for collaboration across government, education, and industry sectors.
The digital literacy agenda is anchored in NITDA’s newly launched Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) for 2024–2027, which consists of eight pillars. The first pillar focuses on fostering digital literacy and cultivating talent, with special attention to responsible and safe use of information technology. The agency has already commenced large-scale training programs, including the 3MTT initiative, which aims to train 3 million Nigerians by the end of 2027 and connect them with employment opportunities.
NITDA’s broader digital strategy also includes investments in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and additive manufacturing. The agency is developing policies and legal frameworks to create a supportive environment for startups and investors, while digitizing government processes and establishing learning centers and innovation hubs across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. These measures are intended to ensure that digital transformation reaches unserved and underserved areas.
The Digital Literacy and Capacity Development (DLCD) department within NITDA is charged with implementing the digital literacy pillar of SRAP. Its mission is to provide digital skills for all citizens, drive value creation, and facilitate access to training through massive open online courses (MOOCs). The department also works to standardize digital education and IT curricula for Nigeria, develop industry-certified trainers, and bridge digital skills gaps in the public sector workforce.
- IndieSemiC Unveils India’s First IoT Evolution Board at Semicon India 2025, Marking a Major Leap in Domestic Hardware Innovation
- Quantum Metrology Breakthrough: Universal Zero-Measure States Set New Standard for Spin Detection
- Judge Greenlights $1.5 Billion Anthropic Copyright Settlement in Landmark AI-Authors Case
- SC Ventures and Fujitsu Launch Project Quanta to Accelerate Quantum Computing Innovation
- Semiconductor Sell-Off Triggers 2% Tech Stock Slide as Fed Warnings and Shutdown Risk Rattle Markets
NITDA’s approach relies on strategic collaborations with private sector partners, multinationals, and development organizations to design custom digital skills programs for various sectors, including digital entrepreneurship and public administration. Efforts are underway to monitor and track the diffusion of digital skills nationwide, ensuring progress toward policy targets is measured and reported.
Initial public reaction in local Nigerian media and community forums has been cautiously optimistic. Educators and technology professionals have expressed support for the focus on AI-driven educational and administrative initiatives and the commitment to workforce skill development. Some labor groups, however, have voiced concerns regarding potential job displacement and the importance of ensuring inclusive access to digital resources for all citizens. No significant market reactions or social media posts from official government handles have been observed at the time of reporting.
The federal government’s digital literacy drive builds on previous efforts to modernize Nigeria’s education and public sector systems. By setting measurable goals and deploying AI-driven programs, NITDA aims to position Nigeria among Africa’s digital leaders, in line with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS). The agency’s ongoing stakeholder engagement and focus on capacity building reflect a commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable digital transformation across the country.
For further details, reference the official NITDA announcements and policy documents.
Discover more from WireUnwired Research
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Related Post
