As part of its efforts to drive inclusive economic growth and fulfill the presidential goal of equipping 70 per cent of Nigerian citizens with digital literacy by 2027, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched the “Digital Literacy For All” initiative (DL4ALL) at the Nassarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK).
The initiative, developed under the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF), aims to integrate digital literacy into the university’s curriculum.
In collaboration with CISCO and NSUK, this initiative ensures that students across all educational levels achieve digital literacy before graduation, aligning with the goal of reaching 70 per cent digital literacy among Nigerians by 2027.
Delivering a special address at the launch, NITDA director-general, Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi expressed excitement at the significant progress made, describing it as a pivotal moment for collaboration between industry, academia and government to promote digital literacy for all.
“It is a pivotal moment in building an ecosystem where the industry, academia and government work together,” he noted.
Abdullahi emphasised that, with Cisco’s support and government-backed frameworks, the initiative will help produce digitally proficient graduates equipped to enter the workforce, rather than just degree holders.
Referencing projections from the World Economic Forum that predict a global talent shortage of 85 million people by 2030, with a potential $8.5 trillion in unrealised annual revenue, Abdullahi highlighted the opportunity for Africa and Nigeria in particular, to fill this gap.
Highlighting the President’s vision for economic transformation through technology and skills development, Abdullahi stated that building a digitally skilled workforce is essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
“In the world we live in today, digital literacy is no longer optional—it’s essential. To be economically and financially included, digital literacy is crucial,” he said.
Explaining the core competencies of the NDLF framework, which include device and software operation, information and data literacy, collaboration and communication, digital content creation, safety, and problem management, Abdullahi stated that these skills enable students to use technology safely and effectively for content creation, data management, problem-solving and collaboration with peers across institutions.
He noted that launching of DL4ALL at NSUK aligns with Nigeria’s mission of achieving digital sovereignty and will empower students to not only secure jobs but create them, particularly through entrepreneurship programs that encourage them to start businesses before graduation.
Urging students to see technology as a platform for innovation, Abdullahi added, “With technology, your only limit is your imagination. The vast data, connectivity and processing power available today mean you can achieve whatever you imagine.”
In her welcome address, NSUK Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sadaatu Liman described the partnership with NITDA as “transformative,” allowing students to leverage DL4ALL to gain digital skills essential for thriving in the 21st-century global landscape.
She highlighted that the programme not only empowers students but also positions the university as a regional leader in ICT and emerging technologies.
“This strategic integration of cutting-edge technologies into our academic offerings opens up vast opportunities for our students and staff, enabling them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation skills needed in the digital era,” she said.
The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the DL4ALL emblem at NSUK by dignitaries at the event.
