By Omagha Idam
Nigeria’s pioneering digital literacy strategy took centre stage at the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2025 during the high-level session titled “Open Forum #76: Digital Literacy as a Precondition for Achieving Universal Access.”
The session explored the critical link between digital literacy and universal access, emphasising that no country can fully unlock the benefits of economic and digital transformation without first addressing the foundational need for digital skills.
Nigeria was presented as a global case study, spotlighting its National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF) and the flagship Digital Literacy for All (DL4All) initiative. These efforts, driven by bold policy, innovative coordination, and grassroots implementation, aim to equip every Nigerian with the digital skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Attendees learned how Nigeria’s model, rooted in strong frameworks, stakeholder collaboration, and cost-effective delivery, has enabled massive progress, especially in underserved and rural communities. Despite being a densely populated country with historically low literacy levels, Nigeria has shown how strategic partnerships with the private sector, civil society, and volunteers can help close the digital divide at scale.
The session also drew the participation of Nigerian lawmakers and top government officials, reaffirming national commitment to building a digitally literate and inclusive society. Nigeria’s experience inspired interactive dialogue around shared global challenges, highlighting applied solutions and inviting further collaboration among countries seeking to strengthen their digital literacy programmes.
Some of the notable participants from Nigeria include Sen Salisu Afolabi Salisu (Chairman Senate committee on IT and Cybersecurity), Sen Plang Diket (Member), Hon Stanley Adedeji (Chairman House committee), Hon Shina Oyedeji ( Member) among others.