Nigeria is taking significant steps toward strengthening its digital economy with the launch of a comprehensive roadmap designed to improve digital literacy nationwide. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced an ambitious target of ensuring that at least 70% of Nigerians possess digital literacy skills by the year 2027. This initiative forms a critical part of the government’s broader vision to transform the country into a technology-driven economy capable of competing effectively in the global digital landscape.
SUBSCRIBE TO SEEDUFYTECH NEWSLETTER
The roadmap reflects Nigeria’s growing recognition of the importance of digital skills in modern economic development. With one of the largest youth populations in the world and a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, the country is positioning itself to harness the opportunities presented by digital transformation. By equipping citizens with essential digital competencies, the government aims to create a workforce that is innovative, productive, and capable of driving sustainable economic growth.
The announcement was made during the Galaxy Backbone Digital Transformation Summit, where NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, was represented by Dr. Aristotle Onumo. Speaking at the event, Dr. Onumo highlighted the critical role that digital literacy plays in unlocking economic opportunities and improving national competitiveness. He stressed that empowering young Nigerians with practical digital skills is essential for fostering innovation, increasing productivity, and ensuring meaningful participation in the rapidly evolving global digital economy.
According to NITDA, the agency’s long-term objective is to establish Nigeria as a fully IT-enabled nation where technology serves as a catalyst for economic diversification, job creation, and social inclusion. By promoting digital knowledge and encouraging technology adoption across various sectors, the agency believes that more Nigerians will be able to access opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, employment, and innovation.
A major component of the strategy involves a partnership between NITDA and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Through this collaboration, Digital Literacy Champions will be deployed across all 774 local government areas of the country. These champions will serve as grassroots educators and advocates, helping communities acquire the digital skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
The Digital Literacy Champions initiative is expected to focus particularly on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), as well as businesses operating within the informal sector. These segments of the economy play a crucial role in Nigeria’s economic development but often face challenges related to technology adoption and digital capacity. By providing training, mentorship, and practical guidance, the programme seeks to bridge the digital divide and ensure that businesses of all sizes can leverage technology to improve efficiency, expand market access, and increase profitability.
In addition to supporting businesses, NITDA is placing considerable emphasis on developing digital talent among young Nigerians. The agency recognizes that a skilled workforce is essential for attracting investment, fostering innovation, and enhancing the country’s competitiveness in both local and international markets. By investing in digital education and capacity-building programmes, NITDA hopes to prepare the next generation of technology professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators who will contribute to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
The agency also emphasized that its role has evolved significantly over the years. While NITDA was traditionally known primarily as an information technology regulatory body, it has now expanded its mandate to become an ecosystem orchestrator. This shift reflects a broader approach to digital development that goes beyond regulation and focuses on creating an enabling environment for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth.
As part of this expanded role, NITDA is implementing several initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem through policy reforms, infrastructure development, talent cultivation, and innovation support. One of the agency’s key platforms is the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), which plays a pivotal role in nurturing startups and technology-driven enterprises. Through ONDI, emerging businesses gain access to investors, mentorship opportunities, incentives, and international markets, helping them scale their operations and compete globally.
Another notable initiative is the iHatch programme, which supports entrepreneurs across all states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory. The programme is designed to provide startup founders with the resources, training, and networks necessary to transform innovative ideas into viable businesses. By encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting innovation at the grassroots level, iHatch contributes to the growth of a robust digital economy.
NITDA is also preparing for the upcoming Digital Nigeria International Conference, scheduled to take place from October 11 to October 13. The conference is expected to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, innovators, and technology experts from around the world to discuss emerging trends, share knowledge, and explore opportunities for collaboration. The event is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s premier digital technology gatherings and serves as a platform for showcasing the country’s progress in digital transformation.
Furthermore, the agency plans to host a Builders’ Summit, an initiative designed to connect startups with government ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and corporate organizations. Through this platform, innovators will be able to address real-world challenges by developing practical technology solutions that meet the needs of public and private sector stakeholders.
Another key institution highlighted during the summit was the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence. The centre is dedicated to promoting research, innovation, and collaboration in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, and advanced automation. By fostering partnerships between researchers, developers, and industry stakeholders, the centre aims to accelerate the development of globally competitive technological solutions originating from Nigeria.
Overall, NITDA’s strategic roadmap demonstrates a strong commitment to building a digitally empowered society. By prioritizing digital literacy, supporting innovation, developing talent, and expanding access to technology, Nigeria is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and competitive digital future. If successfully implemented, these initiatives could significantly enhance economic growth, create new opportunities for millions of citizens, and strengthen the country’s position as a leading technology hub in Africa.
