NITDA, Bauchi State, Launch Digital Literacy Initiative to Drive Innovation, Job Creation
The Bauchi State Government, in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has launched the Digital Literacy and Skills Framework (DL4ALL Bauchi Initiative), a flagship programme designed to equip citizens with 21st-century skills and position the state as a hub for digital innovation.
Speaking at the launch, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, described digital literacy as a fundamental right and a strategic tool for economic empowerment. He said the initiative forms part of his administration’s broader vision to prepare youths and civil servants to compete globally, create productive jobs, and address poverty through technology.
“Technology and innovation are the fastest-growing industries in the world,” the governor said. “With the right skills, people can create sustainable value from anywhere—even from their homes. Beyond digital literacy, we are committed to producing an army of experts in advanced digital skills who will drive innovation and economic diversification.”
The governor added that the ultimate goal is to create jobs that provide lasting value, fight poverty, and restore dignity, noting that the state has invested heavily in infrastructure over the last six years to unlock economic opportunities for young people.
Representing NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director of the DG’s Office, Dr. Ayodeji Eniola, commended Bauchi for “taking a bold step towards ensuring the state is not left behind in the ongoing global digital revolution.”
The DL4ALL Bauchi Initiative aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 and the National Digital Literacy Framework, which focuses on six core competencies: device and software operation, information and data literacy, digital content creation, communication and collaboration, safety, and problem-solving.
The programme is anchored on three pillars:
Informal sector programme, which equips artisans, traders, and other informal workers with digital skills. Through the National Youth Service Corps, 7,101 Digital Literacy Champions have already reached over 267,000 Nigerians, with a target of 30 million beneficiaries by 2027.
Workforce readiness programme, aimed at providing public servants, graduates, and job seekers with employability skills. NITDA plans to train five million workers nationwide in partnership with Cisco and the Office of the Head of Service.
Educational sector programme, which integrates digital literacy into schools. A new Basic Education Digital Skills Curriculum will roll out in September 2025, alongside training for 3,600 teachers nationwide.
Highlighting Nigeria’s young population as the country’s greatest resource, Inuwa said Bauchi’s abundant human capital and strategic position in northern Nigeria place it in a strong position to become a hub for digital innovation and transformation.
The Director General of the Bauchi State Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy, Malam Hayatudeen Babamaji, described the launch as “a bold agenda for the digital future of Bauchi State.” He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a secure, inclusive, and globally competitive digital economy capable of generating jobs and revenue through technology-driven growth.
The launch attracted senior government officials, technology leaders, development partners, and lawmakers, marking a major milestone in Bauchi State’s digital transformation drive.
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