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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated its dedication to promoting inclusive digital development.
This commitment was underscored by the successful completion of a two-day digital literacy training program specifically designed for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Abuja. The initiative, part of NITDA’s Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) program, aims to equip PWDs with essential digital skills.
The training brought together 50 participants, providing them with practical skills to enhance their participation in Nigeria’s rapidly growing digital economy. By empowering PWDs with digital literacy, NITDA is fostering a more inclusive digital landscape.
This initiative not only promotes digital accessibility but also enables PWDs to fully leverage the opportunities presented by the digital economy, thereby contributing to the nation’s economic growth and development.
In his remarks, the Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, stated that the programme reflects the agency’s determination to ensure accessibility remains a core component of national digital transformation efforts.
He explained that genuine digital advancement cannot be realised without the inclusion of persons with disabilities, adding that millions of Nigerians remain constrained by limited access to accessible and inclusive digital platforms.
“In many cases, the problem is not the absence of digital tools but the lack of accessibility. Platforms that do not support assistive technologies, non-captioned content and inaccessible websites effectively shut people out and limit opportunities,” he added.
Inuwa further explained that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises inclusivity as a driver of national development.
He stressed that persons with disabilities should be recognised as active contributors to economic growth rather than dependants.
“When equipped with the right skills and technologies, persons with disabilities become innovators, entrepreneurs and professionals who contribute meaningfully across sectors,” he added.
He acknowledged the role of Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) and SIMBED in delivering the training, describing the collaboration as a model of how government and civil society partnerships can advance inclusive development.
Highlighting NITDA’s broader digital literacy drive, the Director-General said the DL4ALL programme is a key component of the agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, which targets 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027 and 95 per cent by 2030.
He explained that the initiative operates through three main tracks: an informal sector programme that has trained more than 480,000 Nigerians across 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory since September 2024; an education sector programme focused on embedding digital skills into learning institutions; and a workforce readiness programme designed to strengthen digital competence in both public and private sectors.
“This programme is not merely a pilot. It is proof that inclusive and intentional training works, and that persons with disabilities can excel when given equal opportunities,” Inuwa stated.
Also speaking, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SIMBED, Mr Daniel Onunkwo, described the training as a significant step towards closing the digital inclusion gap for persons with disabilities.
Onunkwo added that the initiative sends a strong message about equity and national progress, adding that SIMBED remains committed to expanding digital empowerment for persons with disabilities.
Similarly, the Executive Director of Inclusive Friends Association, Grace Jerry, represented by Tracy Agbamu, commended NITDA for demonstrating intentional leadership in promoting inclusion under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
She urged participants to continue applying the skills acquired and to serve as digital inclusion advocates within their communities. The training programme further strengthens NITDA’s vision of building a digitally inclusive Nigeria where access to digital opportunities is determined not by physical ability but by empowerment and innovation.
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