In alignment with the National Information Technology Development Agency’s quest of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027, and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration, in transforming the economy and empowering Nigerians through technology, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has commended the DigitalForAllChallenge 2.0 initiated by Tech4Dev and unraveled plans by the Agency to use the vehicle to create ‘Tech Clubs’ across the country.

Inuwa made this known while delivering a Keynote Address at the Launch of the skilling competition initiative.

He said, “our collective mission is clear as we launch this programme as a complimentary effort toward achieving a 70% digital literacy rate for Nigerians by 2027”.

“DigitalForAll Initiative is a visionary programme poised to shape the future of our nation and we also intend to use our Digital Nigeria platform for the final competition of the programme”, Inuwa noted.

The DG who seized the opportunity to elaborately explain the eight Pillars in the redrafted Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) of the Agency which he enumerated to include: Foster Digital Literacy and Cultivate Talents, Build a Robust Technology Research Ecosystem, Strengthen Policy Implementation and Legal framework, Promote Inclusive Access to Digital Infrastructure and Services, Strengthen Cybersecurity and Enhance Digital Trust, Nurture an Innovative and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, Forge Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration and Cultivate a Vibrant Organisational Culture and an Agile Workforce in NITDA are critical cornerstones that seek to address the strategic challenges identified in realising the Agency’s mandates, mission, and values.

Inuwa while noting that the document will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2024, describes the competition as a well thought out programme and a commitment to empower every Nigerian with the knowledge and proficiency needed to navigate and excel in the digital landscape.

“As we embark on this journey, let us remember that digital literacy is not just about skilling people; it is about empowering them to unleash their full potential”. “It is about providing opportunities for growth, fostering innovation, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the rapidly evolving digital world; that is what this programme is poised to achieve”.

According to the DG, “Our Key Objectives of the DigitalForAll Initiative hinge on Inclusive Digital Literacy, Accessible Learning Platforms, Public-Private Partnerships, Measurable Impact, and Awards”.

“For us to succeed, therefore, collaboration with government agencies, educational institutions, industry leaders, and communities cannot be overemphasised”.

“Together, we will create a ripple effect of change that transcends barriers, bringing digital literacy to the forefront of our national development”, the Director-General assured.

While extending gratitude to all the partners, sponsors, and individuals who have joined hands to make the “DigitalForAll Initiative” a reality, Inuwa urged all parties to embark on the challenge journey with enthusiasm, determination, and a shared vision of a digitally inclusive Nigeria.

“We commit to a future where digital empowerment knows no bounds, and every Nigerian is equipped to thrive in the digital age”, Inuwa concluded.

Earlier, Founder, Tech4Dev, Joel Ogunsola, while welcoming guests and giving an overview of the DigitalForAllChallenge, made it known that a total of One Hundred and Fifty (150) Million Naira will be won across the different categories as prizes.

“We believe and are driven by the fact that every Nigerian deserves the right to digital literacy and skills for the future of work.

“There are very intentional efforts by NITDA to invest in the sustainability of this initiative for the long run”, Mr Ogunsola stressed.

Ogunsola went on to inform the audience that there will be essentially, the state level challenges, regional; at the geopolitical level, and the grand finale which will be held on NITDA’s Digital Nigeria International Conference and Exhibition Day.

“The challenge has two phases, the training and competition phases. After the first, beneficiaries will be required to take an assessment to qualify for the second phase”, the Founder espoused.

The initiative by Tech4Dev and in partnership with NITDA and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is arguably Africa’s largest digital skilling competition, designed to reward self-development and encourage the acquisition and use of digital skills through competitive incentives.