By Naeemah Junaid
Nigeria’s push for digital inclusion received a boost as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) intensified collaboration on youth digital skills development, with plans underway to establish a dedicated certificate-awarding training institute.
The initiative was discussed during a working visit by an NYSC delegation to NITDA headquarters in Abuja, where both sides explored ways to scale digital literacy programmes, strengthen institutional frameworks, and align efforts with the country’s digital transformation agenda.
Representing NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, the Director of the Special Duties Unit said the agency views NYSC as a critical partner in extending digital opportunities across Nigeria, given its nationwide reach and strong community presence.
Inuwa said NITDA is expanding access to digital skills through innovation hubs, learning centres, and online platforms designed to accommodate learners at different levels. He also noted ongoing work with education stakeholders to embed digital literacy in school curricula from early education.
He added that collaborations with global partners such as Cisco have enabled Nigerians to earn internationally recognised certifications in advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, while a blended learning approach continues to ensure wider accessibility.
On her part, NYSC Community Development Service representative, Stella Owan, said the proposed institute is designed to harness NITDA’s technical expertise in structuring a sustainable training model for corps members and other youth groups.
She explained that the institute would issue certificates and serve corps members, NYSC staff, youth organisations, and host communities, using a hybrid learning system to improve reach and flexibility.
Owan noted that NYSC, established in 1973, has evolved into a major youth development platform through initiatives such as the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, as well as community-based outreach interventions.
She emphasised that the proposed training institute would focus on practical, entrepreneurship-oriented skills aimed at job creation and self-reliance.