The federal government has unveiled a digital literacy training program aimed at enhancing the productivity and skills of civil servants. The initiative, a collaboration between the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, focuses on equipping government employees with the tools to navigate digital technologies effectively.
At the launch of the three-day workshop in Abuja, NITDA Director General Kashifu Inuwa emphasized that digital transformation is about people, not just technology. He highlighted the importance of active engagement from civil servants, stating, “Technology enhances lives, but government services rely on individuals to create policies and deliver them to citizens.”
To achieve a 70% digital literacy rate by 2027, NITDA has rolled out the “Digital Literacy for All” (DL4ALL) initiative. This program includes developing a digital literacy curriculum with the Ministry of Education, integrating it into tertiary institutions, and partnering with the NYSC to train over 10 million Nigerians annually in essential digital skills.
Inuwa also referenced World Bank projections indicating that 35-45% of jobs in Nigeria will require digital competencies by 2030, underscoring the urgency of the initiative. He noted that the program’s broader goal is to prepare Nigeria’s workforce for a digitally-driven economy.
Representing the Head of Service of the Federation, Permanent Secretary Fatima Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood stressed the importance of transforming the civil service into a globally competitive, technology-driven workforce. She described the training as a cornerstone of the Federal Civil Service Commission’s strategy to create a digitally literate civil service.
Mahmood further explained that the workshop is more than a routine exercise; it is a transformative opportunity to empower public servants to deliver their mandates more effectively. “By acquiring cutting-edge tools and knowledge, participants will drive meaningful change and progress in Nigeria’s public service,” she said.
The partnership between the Office of the Head of Service and NITDA exemplifies collaboration in achieving national goals, she noted. Expressing gratitude to NITDA and other stakeholders, she added that their joint efforts are pivotal in harnessing digital technology for progress.
