The Federal Government has announced plans to invest N12 billion in digital economy research projects as part of efforts to harness technology for national development.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 18th International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV) in Abuja, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the initiative would focus on key areas including artificial intelligence (AI), internet connectivity, and digital skills.
According to Tijani, the government is forming three research clusters across six universities to drive the projects. He explained that these clusters would lead Nigeria’s push to develop homegrown solutions to digital challenges, rather than relying on imported expertise.
“Digital technologies have become central to modern life. They are not just economic tools but instruments that define how societies grow and govern themselves,” Tijani said.
He noted that Nigeria’s involvement in ICEGOV since 2024 underscored the nation’s growing recognition as a hub for research and innovation in Africa, adding that over 55 research projects were funded last year.
Integrating digital literacy into schools to prepare young Nigerians for the future
The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, revealed that plans are already underway to integrate digital literacy and skills into Nigeria’s school curricula by 2026.
He explained that the goal was to ensure that Nigerian students are equipped with the digital knowledge needed for the evolving global economy.
“In Africa, we have a very young, digitally native population. The government must meet them where they are — online,” Inuwa said.
He added that approval had been secured in collaboration with the Ministry of Education to begin introducing digital literacy into the formal education system by next year. The move, he said, would also extend to improving the digital competence of public servants to enhance service delivery.
Technology experts call for responsible innovation and regulation
Elsa Estevez, Chair of the ICEGOV Steering Committee, said the risks associated with artificial intelligence demand global cooperation. She urged governments and organisations to ensure that innovation remains people-centred and does not undermine public trust.
She highlighted the growing threat of misinformation and political manipulation online, calling for stronger regulation, education, and ethical frameworks to secure the digital space.
“We must ensure that innovation not only advances technology but also strengthens societies,” she said.
For many Nigerians, the N12 billion digital research investment could have real-life implications that go beyond policy speeches. Experts believe that by improving internet connectivity and promoting digital skills, the initiative could lower the cost of doing business, create tech-driven jobs, and open new income streams for small entrepreneurs.
Better connectivity could reduce reliance on physical offices and long commutes, helping small businesses save on fuel and rent. Similarly, integrating digital literacy into schools means the next generation of Nigerians would be better equipped for remote and global jobs, increasing their earning potential.
