The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is collaborating with key organizations to bring the benefits of digital technology to all local governments across the country.
This is in a push to transform Nigeria into a global tech hub and drive economic diversification.
The initiative aligns with the administration’s goal to reform the economy for sustained inclusive growth.
*Digital Literacy and Economic Growth*
NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, emphasized the agency’s vision of fostering inclusive economic growth through technological innovation.
According to him, the vision dovetails with the president’s eight priority areas, including economic reform, national security, agricultural development, infrastructure enhancement, and education and health improvements.
In his words, “The President wants to reform the economy to deliver sustained economic growth; strengthen national security for peace and prosperity; boost agriculture to achieve food security; enhance infrastructure and transportation; focus on education, health, and social investment; accelerate diversification through digitization and innovation; and improve governance for effective service delivery to citizens.”
*Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0)*
NITDA has developed the Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) for 2024-2027, aimed at addressing these priority areas.
Among its eight pillars, “Foster Digital Literacy and Cultivate Talents” stands out, targeting 95% digital literacy by 2030 and an interim goal of 70% by 2027.
“To ensure inclusivity, we need to make our citizens digitally literate. We developed the National Digital Literacy Framework with an ambitious target of achieving 95% digital literacy by 2030, but Mr. President set a mid-term target of 70% by 2027,” Inuwa explained.
*Collaborative Efforts for Digital Literacy*
The agency is partnering with the Ministry of Education to integrate digital literacy into school curricula and develop standard training programs with certifications, essential for government employment.
For market people and artisans, NITDA is delivering digital literacy through various channels like TV programs, social media, radio, and roadshows.
Inuwa added, “We have already worked with the Head of Service to make digital literacy a requirement for government workers. But for the market people, artisans, and others, they need the literacy to use digital devices for internet banking, government digital services, and more.”
*3 Million Tech Talent Program*
The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, in collaboration with NITDA, launched the 3 Million Tech Talent program to bridge skill gaps and build capacity among youth.
The initiative has trained over 30,000 individuals in its first phase and is currently executing the second phase.
*Broad Strategic Pillars*
Inuwa highlighted other strategic pillars, such as building a robust technology research ecosystem and strengthening policy implementation and legal frameworks.
He also emphasized promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure and enhancing cybersecurity.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of nurturing an innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem, forging strategic partnerships, and cultivating a vibrant organizational culture.
*Grassroots Collaboration*
Hon. Abdallah Tanko Yakassai praised NITDA’s efforts and expressed his team’s readiness to collaborate in promoting the agency’s activities across the 774 local governments.
“Mr. President is a grassroots person, which is why he created this office to ensure that government initiatives reach the grassroots level. We need to show people the importance of your programs and how they can engage with them,” Yakassai said.
NITDA’s initiatives represent a strategic effort to embed digital literacy and technology adoption across Nigeria, ensuring that every local government benefits from the transformative power of digital innovation.
