The Federal Government has identified teacher training and upskilling as critical to achieving its target of 70 percent digital literacy by 2027, as Nigeria accelerates efforts to build a technology-driven economy.
Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, Kashifu Inuwa, made this known during a stakeholders’ dialogue in Abuja focused on aligning Nigeria’s education system with the realities of the digital economy.
Teachers Key to Digital Transformation
Speaking through NITDA’s Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, Aristotle Onumo, Inuwa said the rapid growth of the digital economy is transforming classrooms and redefining the role of educators.
“Teachers are no longer just instructors; they are guides who help students identify credible information, avoid harmful content, and develop responsible digital behaviour,” he said.
He stressed that educators must go beyond traditional teaching methods to equip students with practical digital skills and critical thinking abilities needed in a technology-driven world.
Push for Nationwide Digital Literacy
Inuwa reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding digital skills through initiatives such as the Digital Literacy for All programme, alongside strategic partnerships with schools and institutions to strengthen teachers’ capabilities.
According to him, achieving widespread digital literacy is central to Nigeria’s ambition of building a knowledge-based economy powered by innovation.
Stakeholders Call for Infrastructure Support
Executive Director of the Development of Educational Action Network Initiative, Semiye Michael, said the dialogue was designed to bridge the gap between education and the evolving digital landscape.
He emphasised the need to:
- Improve teachers’ digital competence
- Provide access to modern digital infrastructure
- Align classroom teaching with real-world technology demands
Collaborative Approach
The event brought together stakeholders from the Federal Ministry of Education, Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, and private sector players, highlighting the importance of multi-sector collaboration in driving digital education.
Outlook
With Nigeria’s digital economy expanding rapidly, experts say empowering teachers will be decisive in preparing the next generation for future jobs.
The government’s focus on upskilling educators signals a shift toward long-term capacity building, positioning schools as a key driver of national digital transformation.
