By Solomon Yaji

Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has emphasised the critical role teachers play in driving Nigeria’s digital transformation, noting that classrooms will be central to shaping the country’s technology-driven future.

Inuwa made the remark during a stakeholders’ dialogue organised by the Development of Educational Action Network Initiative (DEAN) in Abuja.

Speaking on the theme “Nigeria’s Current Digital Landscape: Our Reality and Its Practical Connection to Education,” the NITDA DG, who was represented by the agency’s Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, Dr. Aristotle Onumo, said the rapid expansion of the digital economy is reshaping the education sector and redefining the role of teachers in modern learning environments.

He explained that while digital technologies have created unprecedented access to information and opportunities for students, they also present challenges that require guidance and responsible use.

According to him, teachers must go beyond the traditional role of knowledge transmission to become mentors who help students navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

“Teachers are no longer just instructors; they are now guides who help students identify credible information, avoid harmful online content, and develop responsible digital behaviour,” he said.

Inuwa added that educators must cultivate critical thinking among students while equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven society.

He reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to advancing digital literacy nationwide through initiatives such as the Digital Literacy for All programme and partnerships with educational institutions aimed at strengthening teachers’ digital capacity.

The NITDA boss stressed that empowering teachers with digital skills is vital to preparing Nigerian students for the future workforce and ensuring the country remains competitive in the global digital economy.

Nigeria is currently pursuing an ambitious digital literacy agenda, targeting 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027 as part of broader efforts to build a knowledge-driven economy powered by innovation and technology.

Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Director of DEAN Initiative, Semiye Michael, said the workshop was designed to re-engineer teachers’ capacity in line with the realities of the digital economy.

“We need to strengthen teachers’ competence and provide them with access to the necessary digital infrastructure,” Michael said, adding that the engagement would help shape policies that support technology-driven learning in Nigerian schools.

He described the workshop as an “awesome experience,” noting that ideas generated during the session would be consolidated into a policy guide for the ministry and other relevant agencies.

Michael further noted that strengthening teachers’ digital capacity would be vital to enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global knowledge economy.

The event attracted key stakeholders from the Federal Ministry of Education, Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), as well as private sector experts.

Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers (NIMMME or 3M), a vital division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), has inaugurated Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Orekyeh, MNSE, as its 13th National Chairman in a colourful ceremony held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, in Abuja.

Center …Igwe Aguleri Dr Michael Idigo (Ezeudo) Royal Father of the Day and Deputy President of NSE Engr Valerie Agberagba (Representing the President of NSE Engr Ali Rabiu MFR) to his left.

NSE President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, FNSE, MFR, who delivered the opening remarks through his Deputy, Engr. Valerie Ifeuko Agberagba, FNSE, described the event as a major milestone for engineers specialising in metals, mining and materials science – professionals whose expertise is crucial for constructing durable roads, factories, bridges and other infrastructure projects essential to Nigeria’s economic growth and industrialisation.

Engr. Rabiu warmly congratulated Engr. Orekyeh, a Senior Mechanical Engineer at the Federal Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, alongside his newly elected executive committee, for securing the confidence of their peers through a democratic election process.

He emphasised that the inauguration transcended a mere change of guard, positioning it as a renewed commitment to repositioning the 3M Institution for greater impact in addressing Nigeria’s developmental challenges.

These engineers are at the forefront of transforming raw natural resources extracted from the earth – such as iron ore, coal, limestone, gold and other solid minerals – into finished products like steel beams, construction aggregates and high-performance materials used in homes, industries and public infrastructure across the country.

The NSE President expressed profound gratitude to the outgoing National Chairman, Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, FNSE, for his exemplary service during his tenure, while calling on all members to close ranks and provide unwavering support to the incoming leadership.

Engr Michael Orekyeh National Chairman 3M-NIMMME Delivering his speech after being sworn in

In a detailed charge to the new executives, Engr. Rabiu outlined key focus areas in straightforward terms: aggressive advocacy for policies that boost the metals, mining and materials sectors; development and enforcement of rigorous professional standards; expanded capacity-building programmes for members; upholding ethical leadership and integrity; fostering collaboration with other NSE technical divisions and branches; and proactive engagement with government agencies, private industries and the general public to drive tangible outcomes.

He underscored the urgency of these priorities amid Nigeria’s pressing national issues, including dilapidated road networks, high unemployment rates, inadequate industrial base and environmental degradation, urging engineers to forge stronger partnerships with policymakers, research institutions and the organised private sector.

“The challenges facing our country today demand stronger synergy between engineering professionals, policymakers and industry stakeholders,” Engr. Rabiu stated, reaffirming NSE’s overarching mission to promote engineering excellence that safeguards lives, property and the nation’s natural resources.

A standout feature of the event was the spotlight on a homegrown innovation in road construction tailored to Nigeria’s tropical climate characterised by year-round warmth and heavy torrential rains, in contrast to the frost-resistant designs prevalent in temperate Western countries.

Dubbed Cement-Stabilised Soil Pavement with Integrated Microsurfacing, the technology leverages abundant local soils like laterite as the base material, stabilised with cement and specialised additives in a central mixing plant to achieve uniform strength and superior water resistance.

This approach eliminates the inconsistencies of traditional in-situ mixing methods, delivering roads that are more durable, cost-effective and quicker to build while reducing dependency on imported asphalt.

The inauguration lecture, themed “Diversifying the Nigerian Economy through Metals and Solid Minerals Development,” resonated deeply with participants, highlighting Nigeria’s vast untapped reserves of over 40 commercially viable solid minerals spread across more than 500 locations nationwide. Engr. Rabiu reiterated NSE’s steadfast commitment to supporting federal and state governments with technical expertise, policy recommendations and innovative solutions to responsibly harness these resources for job creation, revenue generation and sustainable development without compromising ecological balance.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Vassily Oye Barberopoulos, Managing Director of Nigerian Foundries Group based in Ota, Ogun State, passionately advocated for replicating the successful Local Content policy from the oil and gas sector in the solid minerals industry.

He noted that mining operations demand a wide array of components – from castings and forgings produced in foundries to fabricated parts – yet foreign mining firms predominantly import these, stifling local manufacturing. Mr. Barberopoulos called for robust legislation championed by the National Assembly, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and NIMMME to mandate local sourcing, mirroring the transformative impact of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in petroleum, which unlocked billions in opportunities for indigenous firms.

Guest Lecturer, Engr. Ebosie Ezeoke, Executive Chairman of Anambra State Materials Testing Laboratory (ASMTL), enlightened the audience on an eco-friendly, low-cost cold paving technology for road construction.

L-R Mr Obi Asika Director General National Council on Arts and Culture NCAC….Mr Vassily Oye Barberopoulos MD Nigerian Foundries Group

He described the method as revolutionary, being five times stronger and far more durable than conventional flexible asphalt pavements, while slashing costs and minimising environmental impact through reduced energy use and emissions during production and application – ideal for Nigeria’s constrained budgets and harsh weather conditions.

Engr. Michael Orekyeh, also linked to Anambra State’s ICT Agency initiatives, was formally sworn in by the immediate past Chairman, Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, FNSE, represented by Prof. Aje Tokan, a former National Chairman of the institution.

In his acceptance speech, the new helmsman unveiled an ambitious strategic roadmap centred on maximising member participation in specialised committees and Strategic Sector Groups (SSG); deepening partnerships with government ministries, agencies and private sector players; rolling out comprehensive training schemes to upskill 3M professionals; and introducing a modernised certification framework to enhance credibility and employability in the global marketplace.

The well-attended ceremony drew an array of high-profile dignitaries, reflecting the event’s national significance and the broad support for advancing Nigeria’s engineering landscape.

Prominent among them were the Royal Father of the Day, Igwe Dr. Michael C. Idigo (Ezeudo), Igwe Aguleri; Special Guest of Honour, Mr. Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Abuja; Keynote Speaker Mr. Vassily Oye Barberopoulos; Guest Lecturer Engr. Ebosie Ezeoke; Director-General of the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO), Engr. Obadiah Nkom (represented by Engr. A. Habila); President of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Engr. Chinyere Nnenna Igwegbe; Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Petroleum Engineers (NIPE), Dr. Yetunde Aladeitan; past 3M National Chairman, Prof. Aje Tokan; and Managing Director of Geocardinal Engineering, Engr. Jacob Adeyemo.

NLNG has demonstrated its dedication to media development in Nigeria through the successful completion of the second edition of the #NLNGChangeYourStory workshop for 2026, which took place in Lagos.

The workshop convened 40 participants representing diverse media outlets to examine the changing landscape of journalism shaped by artificial intelligence and digital communication. Discussions centered on how new media technologies can support real-time reporting, extend audience reach across borders, and foster deeper, more effective engagement on digital platforms.

Speaking at the event, the General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, Sophia Horsfall, described the workshop as part of the company’s broader effort to strengthen engagement with the media while supporting professional excellence in journalism. She noted that the initiative reflects NLNG’s belief that well-informed reporting plays an important role in shaping public understanding of critical sectors such as energy, economic development, and sustainability.

She encouraged participants to leverage the insights and practical knowledge gained during the workshop to elevate the quality, depth, and credibility of their reporting.

“NLNG views this engagement as a strategic partnership. We provide the energy that powers nations and generates revenue for our nation; you provide the information that powers our minds. We have been proud to host you, but our pride will only be justified when we see the ‘New Standard’ in your next feature, your next broadcast, and your next investigative report.

As you head back to your various stations, I urge you to take the spirit of this workshop with you.”

The programme combined expert-led discussions with hands-on learning. Digital communication specialist Dan Mason guided participants through key aspects of digital storytelling, while veteran journalist Taiwo Obe led a practical Journalism Clinic. Together, the sessions equipped participants with practical skills in data visualisation, online verification, audience engagement, and managing a strong digital presence.

Through the workshop, NLNG reiterated its commitment to promoting journalistic excellence and supporting the media industry’s digital transformation. The #NLNGChangeYourStory programme has now empowered over 400 journalists with enhanced digital communication and social media skills across its various editions.