The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is partnering with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to integrate digital literacy as a general course across all Nigerian universities.
The announcement was made by NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, during a courtesy visit to the NUC headquarters in Abuja.
Highlighting the initiative’s significance, Abdullahi noted that the partnership builds on the success of the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative, piloted at Nasarawa State University, Keffi. This program introduces digital literacy as a self-learning credit-earning course, supported by Cisco. “We aim to replicate this model nationwide, ensuring students are equipped with essential digital skills to thrive in the digital economy,” he stated.
The Director General explained that the collaboration aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), which prioritizes fostering digital literacy and talent development among its eight pillars. The agency aims to achieve 70% digital literacy by 2027 and 95% by 2030.
“Embedding digital skills as a general course in universities is a sustainable solution to meet these targets. With NUC’s support, we can make digital literacy as foundational as English and Mathematics, empowering students to navigate and contribute effectively to the digital economy,” Abdullahi emphasized.
He also underscored the role of universities as critical stakeholders, stating, “Research is the foundation of any robust economy, and we must collaborate to build a technology research ecosystem that addresses national challenges.”
Abdullahi stressed the importance of aligning education with industry needs, citing the Nigerian Start-Up Act as a legal framework to foster entrepreneurial ecosystems. He urged universities to tailor their curricula to equip students with in-demand skills, enabling them to graduate as job creators rather than job seekers.
“No one succeeds in isolation,” Abdullahi remarked. “This partnership with NUC is vital for achieving our vision. Together, we can bridge the digital divide and position Nigeria as a global talent hub.”
In response, NUC’s Executive Secretary, Chris J. Maiyaki, commended the initiative and reiterated the commission’s commitment to driving digital transformation within Nigeria’s university system.
“The rapidity of change in the digital revolution makes a strong case for the Nigerian university system to embrace this transformation. Digital literacy is essential; functioning in today’s world requires significant technological skills,” Maiyaki remarked.
While acknowledging the challenges of limited digital infrastructure, Maiyaki expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to enrich higher education. “Using digital platforms to advance our research ecosystem and exploring artificial intelligence are transformative opportunities for our universities,” he added.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the initiative, underscoring its potential to prepare Nigerian students for a competitive global digital economy.
