The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, has pledged the Scheme’s support for the Federal Government’s Digital Literacy for All Programme, emphasizing the importance of this initiative in enhancing productivity across various sectors in Nigeria.
The NYSC Director-General made this statement at the Flag-Off Ceremony of Digital Literacy for All, held at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna, Niger State, North Central Nigeria.
Brigadier General Ahmed noted that the program aims to train 30 million Nigerians in the informal sector and rural areas on digital literacy. This effort aligns with the country’s goal of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027.
‘The idea of empowering Nigerians with digital skills is a game-changer that will revolutionize key economic activities such as buying, trading, and craftsmanship, among others. This will not only boost the fortunes of our people but also accelerate overall national develo
pment. I assure Nigerians that we are fully committed to the success of this project.’
General Ahmed also acknowledged the contributions of Corps Members in training other youths on ICT tools through the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development program.
He expressed gratitude to the management of NITDA for supporting the Scheme, particularly in training Corps Members on the digital economy.
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In his welcome address, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Abdullahi, explained that the initiative was conceived following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to diversify the Nigerian economy by enhancing productivity in critical sectors through technological innovation.
He emphasized the need for digital literacy among Nigerians to benefit from the program.
Abdullahi highlighted the importance of collaboration with NYSC, due to its nationwide presence. He announced that 80 Corps Members would be trained and equipped as NI
TDA Champions in each state, who would then train other members of the public on digital literacy.
‘We want each Corps Member to train at least 60 Nigerians every month. All Nigerians should know how to use information and internet spaces because things are changing. Very soon, we will have digital literacy as part of our school’s curriculum.’
In his keynote address, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Olawande Ayodele, commended the Niger State Governor for his support for NYSC and its focus on youth development. He encouraged youths to take advantage of the various economic empowerment programs created by the Federal Government to improve their standards of living.
During the flag-off ceremony, Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago praised the collaboration between NITDA and NYSC, stating, ‘This initiative is a novel idea as it will increase economic growth and productivity.’
He also emphasized Niger State’s commitment to digital literacy, highlighting its partnerships with reputable instituti
ons to create digital hubs and its collaboration with NITDA to promote digital literacy while addressing climate change and environmental degradation.
Source: Voice of Nigeria