By, Yewande Foluke Bassey
As Nigeria advance towards a future dominated by digital technology and innovation, the need for comprehensive digital literacy has never been more pressing. At the forefront of this initiative is the Ministry of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, led by Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the implementing Agency in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education (FME).
The Director General of NITDA Kashifu Inuwa during a media interview at the 68th Meeting of the National Council on Education (NCE), articulated the critical mandate given to the Ministry of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, emphasising the importance of deepening Nigeria’s digital literacy. He noted that, “There is no way we can achieve the mandate without partnering with the Ministry of Education.” This partnership is essential as it aligns with the goals of the Federal Government, which seeks to equip citizens with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
He stated that both entities are united in their commitment to enhancing the nation’s digital landscape, recognising that sustainable progress can only be achieved through collaboration, strategic partnerships, and a shared vision for digital transformation.
Inuwa asserts that while technology plays a pivotal role in improving lives, it is ultimately people who enhance technology. He highlighted this fact, stating, “The people component of technology is skills and talent.” It is important to upskill Nigeria’s workforce, ensuring that citizens are not only consumers of digital technology but also proficient in creating and utilizing these technologies effectively.
Additionally, he mentioned that the digital literacy curriculum aligns seamlessly with the Digital Literacy Pillar which is one of NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), which aims to achieve a target of 70% digital literacy by 2025 and 95% by 2030. To realize these ambitious target, NITDA has established a framework that emphasises the integration of digital literacy into the formal education system which is known as the Digital Literacy Framework (DLF).
According to the NITDA DG, the digital literacy framework is expected to be embedded within the formal education framework, providing students with essential skills that will prepare them for the demands of the 21st-century workforce. With optimism, he assured that, that developed curriculum is expected to be reviewed and approved at the Council, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward a digitally literate Nigeria. Hence, Nigeria can cultivate a generation of tech-savvy individuals who can contribute to the country’s digital economy and leverage technology for national development.
While recognising the importance of skills development, Inuwa added that NITDA has also committed to upscaling training processes for citizens. This approach aims to foster digital fluency among the populace, enabling them to navigate and utilize digital tools and services effectively. The Federal Government’s target is clear: to increase citizens’ digital fluency and build a workforce capable of developing Nigeria’s digital offerings.
He also highlighted that the focus on human capital development is vital for positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy. “By prioritising the training of citizens in digital literacy and related skills, the country can harness the full potential of its human resources.”
To achieve these goals, Inuwa disclosed that NITDA and the Ministry of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy are fostering collaborative relationships with various stakeholders, including educational institutions, private sector players, and international partners. These partnerships provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and access to new markets, ultimately enriching Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
Inuwa’s assertion that “technology makes our lives better, but people also make technology better” reflects a holistic approach to digital transformation. By prioritizing the development of skills and talent, Nigeria can ensure that its citizens are not only equipped to use technology but also empowered to innovate and create solutions that address local challenges.
The NITDA Director General affirmed that as Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey, the alignment of NITDA’s initiatives with the goals set forth by the Ministry of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy is crucial.
In conclusion he summits that the concerted effort by relevant stakeholders to embed digital literacy within the education system and enhance citizens’ skills aligns with the overarching objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
