OVER 53 MILLION NIGERIANS TO BENEFIT FROM DIGITAL SKILLS TRAINING UNDER NEW FEDERAL INITIATIVE 09-11-24
By Sadiq Aminu As part of the federal government’s efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy, over 53 million Nigerians are set to receive training in digital skills between 2024 and 2027. This initiative, aimed at equipping citizens with the tools needed to tap into the growing digital economy, was unveiled by the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullah, during the launch of the Digital Literacy for All Initiative at Nasarawa State University in Keffi.
The Digital Literacy for All Initiative, developed by NITDA, is designed to provide Nigerians with the digital skills required to unlock vast economic opportunities within cyberspace. The programme is set to train individuals across both the formal and informal sectors, including members of the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC), in order to achieve 70% digital literacy across Nigeria by 2027.
At the launch of the nationwide university student training in Keffi, Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullah emphasized the initiative’s importance for enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness. “This initiative will drive job creation, entrepreneurship, and improve Nigeria’s position in the global market,” he said. He also highlighted that the training would address the needs of both formal and informal sectors, offering opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of their background.
The Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University Keffi, Professor Sa’adatu Liman, praised the initiative for its potential to empower young Nigerians. “The Digital Literacy Initiative provides a unique opportunity for students to acquire the skills necessary to harness the vast potential of the digital world, regardless of their field of study,” she stated.
Beneficiaries of the programme, including Umar Bala, spoke about how digital skills will open doors to new career opportunities. “This training will not only enhance my job prospects but also significantly boost my career advancement,” he said.
Governor Abdullahi Sule, represented by the State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mr. Samuel Kafu, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the federal economic transformation programme. “The Nasarawa State government will continue to play an active role in ensuring the success of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms for the benefit of our citizens,” Kafu assured.