Nigeria pushes digital inclusion with new data-driven literacy initiative

The Federal Government says it is adopting a data-driven approach to identify out-of-school children and adults across Nigeria and enrol them in inclusive, technology-powered learning programmes, as part of efforts to bridge the nation’s literacy gap.

Speaking at a ministerial press briefing organised by the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) in Abuja to mark the 2025 International Literacy Day, themed “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmed, Minister of State for Education, says that reliable data will be critical in tackling the country’s literacy challenge.

“Reliable data,” Professor Ahmed notes, “will enable millions to be enrolled into literacy programmes that are inclusive, empowering, and relevant to today’s needs.”

[caption id="attachment_185393" align="alignnone" width="768"] Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmed, Minister of State for Education.[/caption] “By developing a reliable data system, government will track progress, identify gaps, and allocate resources more effectively,” she adds, noting that technology is also being deployed to reach underserved populations in urban centres, rural villages, internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, and remote communities.

The Minister adds that the government is committed to owning and controlling its education data system to ensure accuracy, transparency, and effectiveness.

“By developing a reliable data system, government will track progress, identify gaps, and allocate resources more effectively,” she adds, noting that technology is also being deployed to reach underserved populations in urban centres, rural villages, internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, and remote communities.

Digital literacy at scale

Dr. John Edeh Onimisi, Acting Executive Secretary of NMEC, highlights how digital tools are driving accessibility in learning nationwide.

“NMEC’s digital education initiative using radio, television, and mobile applications is making learning more accessible and relevant, with plans to scale across all 36 states and the FCT’s 377 local government areas,” he says.

According to him, the programme has already exceeded its initial target of 3,876 learners, enrolling over 27,000 individuals nationwide. According to him, the success of the initiative demonstrates its potential to transform communities through digital literacy and equip learners with skills that prepare them for active participation in the digital economy.

UNESCO backs Nigeria’s literacy push

Delivering a goodwill message, Mr. Oladeji Adeyemi, Director-General of UNESCO, says literacy in the 21st century extends beyond reading and writing, to empowering citizens to think critically, navigate digital tools, and thrive in a technology-driven world.

With a call for development partners, civil society organisations, and traditional leaders to support the vision, the Federal Government reaffirmed that no one will be left behind in Nigeria’s quest for mass literacy and digital inclusion .