By Joan Nwagwu
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) says it is expanding grassroots digital literacy through its partnership with the Office of the First Lady.
Mr Ahmed Tambuwal, Acting Director, Digital Literacy Department, said this at the ongoing nine-day Women ICT Training on Wednesday in Abuja.
Tambuwal, represented by Mr Yakubu Musa, Acting Head, Training Division, Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Department, NITDA, said the programme targets women and youths through inclusive digital capacity building.
He said the collaboration supports government’s plan to achieve 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027.
He said beneficiaries were selected from local communities to deepen participation in the digital economy.
“We are committed to ensuring no Nigerian is left behind in this transformation.
“Women drive community development, and digital skills strengthen households and enterprises,” he added.
He said thousands of NYSC digital literacy champions support the initiative nationwide.
He said more than 400,000 Nigerians had been trained, with expansion planned for additional states.
According to him, participants also have access to free online learning resources and support channels.
He urged the beneficiaries to apply their skills to improve livelihoods and pursue digital opportunities.
He said the partnership reinforces NITDA’s commitment to inclusive national development.
Ms Juliana Onyeche-Alu, Abuja Coordinator for the Women ICT Training, said the initiative equips women with essential digital tools.
“It is a hands-on programme covering content creation, communication, collaboration and computer use,” she said.
“The women are excited. Their eagerness and willingness to learn are outstanding,” she added.
She said participants were also briefed on NITDA’s role in Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.
“They now understand how technology supports innovation and business growth,” she said.
She commended the First Lady and NITDA for the gesture.
Ms Amina Bilal Bulama, NITDA Supervisor for the training, said the initiative enhances women’s digital inclusion.
“Participants learned how to apply digital skills in daily activities, especially entrepreneurship,” she said.(NAN)