Empowering Communities: NITDA DG Urges NYSC Members to Champion Nigeria’s Digital Literacy Revolution
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA December, 2024 - In a bold step toward bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and fostering an inclusive economy, Kashifu Inuwa, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has called on National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving as champions of the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative to intensify their efforts in empowering Nigerians with critical digital skills.
The event, a key component of NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), focuses on grassroots engagement to equip underserved communities with essential digital knowledge. This effort aims to enable individuals to leverage opportunities in an increasingly technology-driven world.
In his keynote address, Inuwa described the NYSC members as ambassadors of a shared vision to ensure every Nigerian is equipped with the knowledge needed to excel in the digital economy. “Your dedication and resilience will ensure that no Nigerian is left behind as we build a technologically driven, globally competitive economy,” he stated.
Inuwa highlighted NITDA’s ambitious targets of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027 and 95% by 2030, emphasizing the transformative power of digital education in creating a more inclusive society. He noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes innovation-led economic growth, youth empowerment, and national prosperity.
“This programme is not just an investment in individuals; it is an investment in our collective future,” Inuwa remarked. “A digitally skilled workforce will not only transform our economy but also position Nigeria as a leader in the global knowledge economy. Through your efforts, we will empower millions of Nigerians to unlock their potential, embrace innovation, and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
He urged the champions to take pride in their pivotal role, emphasizing that the digital transformation of Nigeria begins with their community-based efforts. “The seeds we plant today will yield a harvest of opportunities for generations to come,” he added.
NITDA’s unwavering commitment to digital transformation and inclusion was evident throughout the event. The NYSC members, inspired by the DG’s message, expressed their readiness to serve as change agents in their assigned communities.
As part of the initiative, champions underwent intensive training that included practical workshops on digital tools, effective community engagement strategies, and tailored content delivery to address the unique needs of diverse populations. Their mission includes educating communities on the benefits of digital skills in daily life, such as financial inclusion via digital banking, utilizing e-commerce platforms for small businesses, and ensuring safe navigation of the digital world through cybersecurity awareness.
The DL4ALL initiative represents a collaborative movement involving NITDA, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the NYSC, and other strategic partners. Together, they aim to foster digital inclusion and drive sustainable development across Nigeria.
As these champions prepare to deploy to communities nationwide, their efforts are expected to spark transformative changes, empowering individuals and enhancing the socio-economic landscape of the country.
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