The Nigerian Internet Registration Association (NIRA), the body responsible for managing Nigeria’s internet domain names, has marked its 20th anniversary with the launch of a nationwide digital literacy drive. This initiative aims to improve digital skills among Nigerians, particularly in underserved communities, as part of efforts to bridge the digital divide in the country.
NIRA’s anniversary celebration took place in Lagos and included various stakeholders from the technology sector, government officials, and representatives from civil society organizations. The event highlighted the significant progress made in Nigeria’s internet infrastructure over the past two decades, as well as the challenges that remain.
In his address, NIRA’s President, Sunday Folayan, emphasized the importance of digital literacy in today’s economy. He stated, “As we celebrate 20 years of NIRA, we recognize that the future of our nation depends on our ability to equip our citizens with the necessary digital skills to thrive in a technology-driven world.”
The digital literacy drive will include workshops, training sessions, and online resources aimed at teaching essential skills such as internet navigation, cybersecurity awareness, and the use of digital tools for business and education. NIRA plans to collaborate with educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and private sector partners to implement the program effectively.
The initiative comes at a time when Nigeria is experiencing rapid growth in internet usage, with millions of new users coming online each year. However, a significant portion of the population still lacks basic digital skills, which can hinder their ability to participate fully in the digital economy. According to recent reports, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of internet penetration in Africa, yet many citizens remain digitally illiterate.
NIRA’s digital literacy campaign aims to address these disparities by reaching out to rural and marginalized communities. The organization has set a goal to train over 100,000 Nigerians in various digital skills over the next year. Folayan noted that the initiative is not just about teaching technical skills but also about fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth.
In addition to the digital literacy drive, NIRA also announced plans to enhance its services and improve the overall internet experience for users in Nigeria. This includes initiatives to promote the use of .ng domain names, which are essential for building a strong online presence for local businesses and organizations.
The anniversary event featured panel discussions on the future of the internet in Nigeria, with experts discussing topics such as cybersecurity, digital rights, and the role of technology in economic development. Participants emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to address the challenges facing the internet ecosystem in Nigeria.
As NIRA embarks on this new chapter, the organization aims to position Nigeria as a leader in digital innovation in Africa. The digital literacy drive is seen as a crucial step towards achieving this vision, ensuring that all Nigerians have the opportunity to benefit from the digital economy.
The celebration concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to support the digital literacy initiative and contribute to building a more inclusive digital future for Nigeria. NIRA’s commitment to enhancing digital skills is expected to play a vital role in empowering citizens and fostering economic growth in the years to come.
