The federal government inaugurated the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative on Saturday, aiming to enhance digital skills among Nigerians.
The launch took place at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Center in Minna and was spearheaded by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa outlined that the program is designed to equip Nigerians with fundamental digital skills in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform agenda.
“The initiative was created following the President’s directive to accelerate economic diversification and improve productivity through technology.”
Inuwa highlighted the initiative’s goals, stating that DL4ALL aims to achieve 95 per cent digital literacy by 2030, with a short-term target of 70 per cent by 2027.
The program is structured around six key areas, including device and software literacy, information and data literacy, data protection, content creation for the informal sector, online safety, and problem-solving skills.
Speaking during the event, the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago praised the program’s timing and emphasized the importance of digitalization.
He stressed the need for infrastructure development in ICT within Niger State and committed to prioritizing ICT education.
Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, noted that the DL4ALL program is part of President Tinubu’s broader efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians.
He urged state governments to support such initiatives to advance Nigeria’s digital literacy goals.
The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, commended the initiative for its potential to drive significant progress towards the 70 per cent digital literacy target by 2027.
He highlighted the transformative impact of digital skills on various sectors, including agriculture and craftsmanship, and affirmed the NYSC’s commitment to the program.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Faruk Yusuf, explained that DL4ALL complements the three million technical talents program (3MMT).
“While 3MMT focuses on advanced technical skills, DL4ALL aims to provide essential digital skills to a broader population.”
This online platform reports that the DL4ALL initiative, which includes a learning management system for flexible learning, is also set to leverage partnerships with organizations like the NYSC to advance Nigeria’s digital literacy objectives.
