Why Learning Digital Skills is Crucial for Nigerians

 Nigeria is a country with immense potential and opportunities, but also faces many challenges and risks. A weakening economy, rising insecurity and violent conflicts, and persistent health and humanitarian crises threaten the progress made in its democratic development1. Amid deepening distrust in government and institutions, Nigeria has significant work to do in improving national, state and local security and governance ahead of national and state elections in 20231.

In this context, learning digital skills is not only a desirable option, but a necessary one for Nigerians who want to thrive in the 21st century. Digital skills are the abilities to use information and communication technologies (ICTs) effectively and creatively to achieve personal, professional and social goals2. They include basic skills such as using a computer, browsing the internet, sending an email, and creating a document, as well as more advanced skills such as web development, digital marketing, data analysis, and artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML).

There are many reasons why learning digital skills is crucial for Nigerians, but here are some of the most important ones:

• Digital skills can enhance employability and income. Nigeria has a large and young population, with about 60% of its 211 million people under the age of 253. However, it also has a high unemployment rate, which stood at 33.3% in the fourth quarter of 20203. Many of the available jobs are low-skilled and low-paid, and do not offer much room for career growth and development. Learning digital skills can open up new opportunities for Nigerians to access higher-skilled and higher-paid jobs, both locally and globally. According to a report by the World Bank, digital skills are in high demand in Nigeria, especially in sectors such as ICT, finance, education, health, and agriculture3. Moreover, digital skills can enable Nigerians to become entrepreneurs and innovators, creating their own businesses and solutions that can address the needs and challenges of their communities and beyond. Some examples of successful Nigerian digital entrepreneurs include Jason Njoku, the founder of iROKOtv, Africa’s largest online streaming platform for Nollywood movies4, and Sim Shagaya, the founder of uLesson, an edtech startup that provides personalized and affordable learning for African students5.

• Digital skills can improve access to information and services. Nigeria is a vast and diverse country, with many regions and communities facing challenges such as poor infrastructure, limited connectivity, and inadequate public services. Learning digital skills can help Nigerians overcome these barriers and access information and services that can improve their quality of life. For instance, digital skills can enable Nigerians to use online platforms and applications to access education, health care, banking, e-commerce, entertainment, and social media. Some examples of such platforms and applications include Jumia, Africa’s largest online marketplace6, Flutterwave, a fintech company that provides payment solutions for businesses and individuals across Africa1, and 54gene, a healthtech company that leverages genomics and data science to improve health outcomes for Africans3.

• Digital skills can foster civic engagement and social change. Nigeria is a country with a vibrant and active civil society, with many citizens and organizations working to promote democracy, human rights, and social justice. Learning digital skills can empower Nigerians to participate more effectively and meaningfully in civic and political processes, such as elections, advocacy, and activism. For instance, digital skills can enable Nigerians to use social media and online platforms to raise awareness, mobilize support, and hold authorities accountable for their actions and policies. Some examples of such platforms include BudgIT, a civic organization that uses data and technology to simplify and amplify public finance and governance issues7, and Enough is Enough Nigeria, a coalition of individuals and organizations that advocates for good governance and public accountability.

In conclusion, learning digital skills is crucial for Nigerians who want to seize the opportunities and overcome the challenges of the digital age. Digital skills can enhance employability and income, improve access to information and services, and foster civic engagement and social change. However, learning digital skills is not an easy task, and requires access to quality and affordable education, training, and resources. The Nigerian government, private sector, civil society, and international partners have a role to play in ensuring that all Nigerians, especially the youth, women, and marginalized groups, have the opportunity and support to acquire and apply digital skills for their personal and collective benefit.