The Federal Government has announced a far-reaching initiative to train at least 100 million Nigerians in digital literacy, positioning the programme as one of the most ambitious digital skills efforts ever launched in the country.
The initiative is designed to enhance human capital development, improve workforce competitiveness, and accelerate Nigeria’s national digital transformation agenda.
Collaboration With Clergywealth Cooperative
The programme will be implemented in partnership with Clergywealth Cooperative Society Limited, a cooperative organisation focused on empowerment and social development.
The announcement was made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, during the inauguration of the Joint Implementation Committee (JIC) for the National Conference on Digital Literacy and the formal launch of the Clergywealth Digital Skills Nigeria Initiative.
Akume was represented at the event by Ibrahim Kana, Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Office of the SGF.
Alignment With National Digital Policies
Akume said the programme is structured to expand digital inclusion, strengthen Nigeria’s talent pipeline, and ensure broad participation in the digital economy.
He noted that the initiative is aligned with key national frameworks, including:
- The Federal Government’s Digital Transformation Agenda
- The National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy
- The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu
Future Proof Economy Model to Drive Rollout
Implementation of the programme will follow the Future Proof Economy (FPE) Model, adopted as Nigeria’s official digital literacy framework at the 13th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) in December 2025.
The first phase will focus on training and certifying one million Nigerians, with the initiative expected to scale progressively toward the 100-million-participant target.
No Direct Funding From Federal Government
Akume emphasised that while the programme benefits from policy endorsement and institutional support, it is fully funded and executed by Clergywealth Cooperative Society Limited.
“The Federal Government has no financial obligation, budgetary allocation, or funding responsibility for the programme,” he said.
Training Structure and Participant Benefits
Mrs Rosemary Osikoya, Deputy National Coordinator for Administration and Public Communications at Clergywealth, said the curriculum will cover:
- Foundational digital literacy
- Practical use of digital tools
- Online safety and cybersecurity awareness
- Digital entrepreneurship
- Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence
Each cohort will undergo six months of training, consisting of multiple modules. Participants who complete the programme will receive internationally recognised certifications.
Osikoya added that successful beneficiaries will also be provided with laptop computers to support productivity and continued skills development.
Conference to Launch Digital Literacy Academy
She further disclosed that the Digital Literacy Academy and the Artisan Development Project will be officially launched during a two-day National Conference on Digital Literacy scheduled for January 28 and 29.
The conference will focus on raising awareness about the importance of digital skills in driving employment, innovation, and economic growth.
Nigeria Expands AI and Emerging Technology Training
The initiative complements a growing list of Federal Government-supported digital skills programmes aimed at preparing Nigerians for the evolving digital economy.
The government has also announced plans to train over 200,000 Nigerians in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, strengthening the country’s ambition to become a continental hub for AI innovation.
Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, recently revealed that more than 1.1 million residents of Enugu State are expected to benefit from digital skills training by 2027.
In addition, a strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates aims to equip seven million Nigerian youths with advanced digital skills, entrepreneurial capabilities, and global exposure.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s plan to train 100 million citizens in digital literacy marks a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. With strong policy alignment, private-sector sponsorship, and an expanding focus on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, the initiative underscores Nigeria’s determination to build a future-ready workforce and strengthen its position in Africa’s digital economy
