The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has underscored the critical need for incorporating digital literacy and skills into Nigeria’s formal education system. This, he argued, is essential to adequately prepare citizens for the challenges of the modern world.
Speaking at a Stakeholders Dialogue and High-Level Policy Committee meeting on the Review of Basic Education Curriculum, organized by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) in Abuja, Inuwa highlighted that one of NITDA’s primary goals, as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is to achieve 95% digital literacy in Nigeria by 2030. A midterm target aims to reach 70% by 2027.
Inuwa stressed that achieving these ambitious goals would require collaboration, stating, “We cannot do it alone. But we believe, with you, we can do it. That is why we are exploring this partnership, to work with you, to build digital literacy and skills curricula in our formal education.”
He noted the rapidly changing technological landscape, once considered the realm of science fiction, is now reality. To keep pace, the educational system must evolve to equip students with the skills needed for the 21st century. Inuwa emphasized that building human capital is crucial for the diversification of Nigeria’s economy, as directed by President Tinubu, through technological innovation and increased productivity in key sectors.
“At NITDA, our mandate is to develop IT, which is the cornerstone of meaningful development. A nation’s greatest resource is not its minerals, but its human capital, and we must be intentional about harnessing this resource,” Inuwa stated. He also pointed out the growing threat of automation to many professions, making digital skills essential for future employability.
In addition to fostering cognitive abilities, Inuwa highlighted the importance of equipping children with digital skills to ensure they use technology responsibly. “Technology is a double-edged sword; while children are often distracted by social media, the right digital skills can help them use technology for self-development,” he added.
Echoing Inuwa’s sentiments, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, emphasized the need for Nigeria to keep pace with the rapidly advancing digital era. He noted that technology is transforming various sectors, including agriculture and health, and that Nigeria must adapt to these changes. “Technology is on the rise, and it’s either you join or get left behind. Our children’s education must provide a foundation that enables critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-protection,” Dr. Sununu stated.
The Minister also highlighted the current administration’s commitment to addressing educational challenges, including curriculum reform. He pointed out that Nigeria is one of the countries most affected by the global learning crisis, with one in five out-of-school children worldwide being Nigerian. Additionally, one in four Nigerian children suffers from poor literacy and critical thinking skills, significant barriers to national development.
Dr. Sununu revealed that the administration’s Marshall Plan for Education for the Community of Hope, which outlines the roadmap for the education sector from 2024 to 2027, is a comprehensive, action-oriented plan aimed at overhauling the education system. This plan prioritizes curriculum review and renewal at all levels to ensure that education in Nigeria is functional and contributes to the nation’s overall development goals.
