The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has commended the DigitalForAllChallenge 2.0 initiated by Tech4Dev and disclosed plans by the Agency to use the vehicle to create ‘Tech Clubs’ across the country.
Inuwa, who made this known while delivering a Keynote Address at the launch of the skilling competition initiative, described the digital challenge as being in alignment with NITDA’s quest for achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027, and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration, in transforming the economy and empowering Nigerians through technology.
“Our collective mission is clear as we launch this programme as complimentary efforts 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 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 said are critical cornerstones that seek to address the strategic challenges identified in realizing the Agency’s mandates, mission, and values.
While noting that the document will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2024, Inuwa described 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 growth opportunities, 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,” he said.
Inuwa added, “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 overemphasized. Together, we will create a ripple effect of change that transcends barriers, bringing digital literacy to the forefront of our national development.”
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, the Founder, Tech4Dev, Joel Ogunsola, while welcoming guests and giving an overview of the DigitalForAllChallenge, hinted that a total of N150 Million 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 and regional challenges; 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 in partnership with NITDA and the 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.
