The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) joined forces with the GIZ/DTC to host a Stakeholder Awareness event in Lagos focusing on the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF). This initiative aims to equip Nigerians with crucial digital skills essential for navigating the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
During the event, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi CCIE, highlighted the importance of digital literacy skills in today’s digital age. He emphasized the NDLF as a comprehensive roadmap developed in collaboration with stakeholders to empower Nigerians with the necessary digital skills. “This initiative aims to equip students from a young age with foundational digital skills essential for future success,” he added.
Dr. Falilat Jimoh, representing Director-General Inuwa at the event, emphasized the collaboration with the Ministry of Education to integrate the NDLF provisions into the national school curriculum. Furthermore, NITDA’s partnership with GIZ/DTC focuses on setting high-quality standards for digital literacy content aligned with the NDLF objectives.
Stressing the importance of digital inclusion, Inuwa mentioned ongoing programs targeting diverse segments of society beyond formal education. He emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts in implementing NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, particularly the pillars related to digital literacy and talent cultivation.
“The SRAP 2.0 is a living document that is being redrafted to align with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy policy document “Accelerating Our Collective Responsibility”, which has Five strategic pillars namely, Knowledge, Policy, Infrastructure, Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Capital, and Trade.
According to the NITDA boss, these programs aim to empower individuals to participate meaningfully in the digital economy and access online opportunities. “This resonates with the Knowledge pillar of the Ministry tailored to accelerate the collective responsibilities of all stakeholders towards achieving inclusivity in all its dimensions which supports the Renewed Hope Agenda that is focused on propelling the Nigerian economy and enhancing the welfare of its citizens”, he stated.
The workshop aimed to raise awareness about the NDLF through interactive discussions, helping stakeholders understand its components and potential impact on narrowing the digital divide in Nigeria. Participants were encouraged to continue collaboration to unlock Nigeria’s digital future potential.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Thuweba Diwani from GIZ/DTC anticipated fruitful discussions and emphasized the need for participatory policy frameworks to ensure sustainability.
The event saw participation from various Ministries, Departments, Agencies, private sectors, and other stakeholders, showcasing a collective effort to enhance digital literacy and innovation in Nigeria. Similar sessions have been held in Kano and Abuja, signaling a concerted effort to bridge the digital divide and empower Nigerians for a more inclusive and prosperous digital future.
