Towards achieving 95% digital literacy in Nigeria

Shuaib S. Agaka

A close up of exams candidates shading during the Basic Education Certificate Examinations in Ghana. Getty Images Image used for illustrative purpose.

THE Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, recently reiterated his agency’s commitment in collaborating with key partners to achieve 95 percent digital literacy coverage in Nigeria by 2030. He made the affirmation at programme hosted by e-health Africa, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to implement impactful digital initiatives. There is no doubt in saying that digital literacy stands at the forefront of global progress, serving as the backbone for socioeconomic development in the digital age. As a result , countries worldwide consistently seek ways to enhance their capabilities and harness the full potential of technology in various daily activities. Nigeria was also not left back in this frantic race as this prompted the NITDA, the pioneer in technological advancement in Nigeria, to ambitiously envision achieving 95 percent digital literacy by 2030. It is not merely a goal but a transformative journey. As NITDA embarks on this road, the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead shape a narrative that extends far beyond the boundaries of technology, touching the very essence of Nigeria’s future.

In today’s connected world, digital literacy is the pillar that empowers individuals, communities, and nations to handle the challenges of the digital era. It is a passport to inclusion, a catalyst for innovation, and a driver of economic growth. Nigeria’s aspiration to attain 95 per cent digital literacy by the 2030 close underscores a profound commitment to equipping its citizens with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the digital realm. However, this journey is not devoid of hurdles which need to be addressed for the vision to be realised. The hurdles range from Infrastructure barriers; urban-rural technology differences, educational landscape, and socio-economic factors, including the affordability of digital devices and internet services. Moreover, awareness and perceptions surrounding digital literacy require refined strategies to dispel myths and create an understanding of its transformative potential. In the pursuit of 95 percent digital literacy in Nigeria, a significant stumbling block arises from the challenges surrounding the infrastructure between urban and rural areas, contributing to an uneven distribution of digital resources. Urban centres often enjoy better connectivity and access to digital tools than their rural counterparts. Of course, the urban residents alone can’t make up 95 percent of the Nigerian population, which implies the rural residents must also be heavily involved. Not just that, also, the integration of digital literacy into the formal education system remains a challenge as well. Many educational institutions lack the necessary infrastructure, such as computers and software to facilitate meaningful digital education. In a situation where schools do have access to these resources, there is often a scarcity of updated and relevant educational content.

Furthermore, the effective blending of digital learning into the curriculum largely depends on how skilled educators are in using these tools. Regrettably, many teachers lack the necessary training to seamlessly include digital tools in their teaching methods. The fast-paced changes in technology make this challenge even more difficult, as educators find it challenging to keep up with the latest advancements. Also, affordability or provision of digital tools is also one of the hurdles. The cost of digital devices, to be used to attain digital literacy, including computers and smartphones, is not something 95 percent of Nigerians can afford. While the digital age has ushered in a wealth of opportunities, the expense associated with acquiring computers and smartphones serves as a challenge, particularly for those in lower-income brackets. Yet, potential solutions involve setting up more community technology centres that come equipped with computers and internet access. These centres can offer a place for people, especially those without personal devices, with a space to improve their digital skills. Furthermore, exploring e-waste recycling programs can be a sustainable approach. Repurposing and redistributing refurbished devices will make digital tools to be affordable for a broader segment of the population. Moreso, if possible, the implementation of policies that subsidize the cost of digital devices for low-income individuals will be a crucial step. Government-backed initiatives or collaborations with private sector entities can help make devices more accessible.

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The last hurdle worth noting is the lack of awareness of the potential of digital literacy. The broader population does not fully comprehend the transformative potential of digital literacy. Some individuals, influenced by misconceptions, view digital literacy as irrelevant to their daily lives or too complex to grasp. Consequently, there is a need for National awareness campaigns, local language outreach, hands-on demonstrations, storytelling and success narratives, and collaboration with media outlets. If all of these can be done, the lack of awareness of the potential of digital literacy will definitely be solved, as a result, significant participation and improvement in acquiring digital skills will soar. Therefore, for the vision to be achievable and be a widespread benefit, all these challenges must be solved.

Because the goal of reaching 95% proficiency by 2030 represents more than just an objective; it signifies a significant journey of transformation. This digital vision seeks to redefine Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape, aiming to make digital literacy accessible to all, turning it into a tool for widespread progress rather than a limited privilege.

The vision to achieve 95 percent digital illiteracy by 2030 is not just the responsibility of the government bodies, but it is also the responsibility of educational institutions, civil society, and individuals to unite in shaping Nigeria into a digitally empowered nation.

Agaka, an NYSC member, writes in from Kano.

South Africa eyes key role in global shift toward battery-powered future

Staff Writer

The world’s reliance on batteries is growing rapidly, encompassing everything from vehicles to electronics and energy storage. This trend could position South Africa as a major contributor, says Oscar van Antwerpen, head of geological consulting firm Minrom.
Van Antwerpen emphasises that battery minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and graphite are essential to this transition. Yet, he expresses concern about South Africa achieving its renewable energy goals. The updated energy plan targets All rights reserved.

Burkina Faso reports bird flu outbreak in Ouagadougou, WOAH says

Reuters

Burkina Faso reported an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu on a farm located in its capital Ouagadougou, the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) said on Monday.

The virus, also called avian influenza, killed 441 birds out of a flock of 641, the Paris-based WOAH said in a report, citing local authorities.

Leapfrogging into Tomorrow: Africa’s tech revolution to support green growth 

By the Africa report

© Professor Anthony Nyong, Director of Climate Change and Green Growth at the African Development Bank.

As we navigate the early stages of the 21st century, Africa finds itself at a pivotal moment, facing the challenges of accelerating climate change impacts, and at the same time, the opportunities that the Fourth Industrial Revolution brings.  

According to the 6th Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the African continent is warming faster than the global average, and consequently risks losing up to 3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) by 2050 if current climate trends continue unabated. Yet, within this impending climate crisis lies an unprecedented opportunity for Africa to redefine its developmental trajectory by embracing the disruptive potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. 

The Fourth Industrial Revolution heralds the integration of digital, biological and physical systems, offering novel solutions to longstanding challenges. Africa’s burgeoning population—expected to double by 2050—requires an urgent and innovative approach to sustainability. 

As a climate professional, I cannot say enough about how important it is to harness technology to catalyse Africa’s leap into a future where economic prosperity and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. 

Technological advancements like artificial intelligence (AI), big data, blockchain, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are reshaping industries across Africa. These innovations can significantly enhance efficiency, increase access to essential services and improve the lives of millions.  

In agriculture, for example, precision farming, enabled by AI, has shown promising results, with studies indicating up to 25% increase in crop yields and 30% reduction in water usage. Such advancements are crucial in addressing pressing challenges like malnutrition and hunger, which affect millions of people across Africa. By leveraging the capabilities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Africa can revolutionise its approach to food production, thus ensuring greater food security and nutritional outcomes for its population. 

However, unlocking this potential requires a shift towards innovative financing mechanisms, especially considering recent trends. In 2023, Africa witnessed an alarming 36% decline in investment for startups. This reflects a challenging landscape for entrepreneurship and technological innovation. Despite this setback, countries like Kenya, South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria collectively absorbed nearly 75% of total funding raised by African startups, with fintech companies emerging as the frontrunners.  

Green bonds, blended finance and other creative financial instruments are also essential to mobilise the substantial investments needed to propel Africa into a sustainable and tech-driven future. This approach both supports technological adoption and ensures that solutions are scalable, sustainable and accessible to all layers of society. 

The African Development Bank is committed to advancing economic development and social progress across Africa, leveraging project and programme lending. It is focusing on strategic investments, policy advocacy and capacity building. In collaboration with governments, the private sector and international partners, the Bank’s goal is to implement Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies to tackle a wide spectrum of challenges – from climate change to fostering economic inclusivity. 

Supporting grassroots youth initiatives, nonprofits and small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) is vital for turning technological innovations into real-world community benefits. The African Development Bank supports various initiatives across Africa, like the Ekiti Knowledge Zone and Jobs Creation project in Nigeria. With a commitment of US $80 million in loan financing, the Bank is spearheading this state-led pioneering special economic zone project to foster digital entrepreneurship and generate 26,000 jobs.  

The Ekiti Knowledge Zone initiative aligns well with the Bank’s commitment to promote entrepreneurship talents as well as develop a skilled workforce matching employers’ needs, contributing to sustainable economic growth and job creation in Africa.  

Similarly, the Zayed Sustainability Prize illustrates the significance of recognising and rewarding innovative SMEs and non-profit organisations that tackle critical challenges raised by African startups.  

The Fourth Industrial Revolution presents Africa with a historic opportunity to redefine its development path, enhance resilience to climate change, and secure a prosperous future for its people. By embracing technological innovations and creative financing, Africa can overcome its current challenges. It can harness its immense potential and resources to lead the way in sustainable development. 

The journey is complex and requires collective effort, but with determination and collaboration, Africa’s future in the Fourth Industrial Revolution is both promising and revolutionary. 

What to expect from South Africa’s cybersecurity landscape in 2024

Staff Writer

Highly secure IT device protection shield. Getty Images Image used for illustrative purpose.

As widely reported last year, South Africa received the most cybersecurity threats on the continent by far – 230 million compared to second-placed Morocco’s 71 million in 2022.

Virodh Sunderlall, Product Manager at Services and Solutions Aggregator Tarsus On Demand, says South Africa is particularly vulnerable because of affordability challenges. “More developed countries have more funds available to buy multiple security systems. Our economy has not been at its strongest, so people try to lower expenditure by cutting expenses that don’t generate money, such as security and insurance. This leaves enterprises open to attack.”

South Africans are, however, learning that cybersecurity is not a luxury, as with protection of physical property, he says. As the country ramps up its safeguards, here are five top trends to look out for in 2024:

  1. Multilayered security

Multilayered security was a key strategy for Tarsus On Demand and its partners in 2023, and will remain so in 2024, says Sunderlall. “With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and diverse, relying on a single security layer is no longer sufficient. Multilayered security involves combining different security measures such as firewalls, encryption, access controls, behavioural analytics, and endpoint protection to create robust defences against potential breaches.”

This strategy also allows for adaptation to new threats – if one layer is breached, others can mitigate the risk, reducing the chances of a successful attack.

“Multilayered security has become so important that security vendors are now creating APIs to communicate to other vendors’ products on systems. This helps them leverage each other to bolster security strength. Forward-thinking companies will implement these APIs in 2024,” says Sunderlall.

  1. Better email protection

Between 90-95% of all security breaches happen through email, says Sunderlall. “As with home security, your most-used entry points are also the most vulnerable. Usually, that’s email. Almost every security vendor is trying to solve this, and we’ll see the most movement in this area in 2024.”

New regulations on Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance (DMARC) compliancy, which governs how emails are sent, also come into effect from March 2024 and will affect security products going forward.

  1. More options, with more flexibility

Fixed term contracts are falling out of favour, with multiple vendors now offering customers more flexibility, says Sunderlall. “Vendors are no longer tying customers and partners into 12-month security contracts. Instead, they’re restructuring offerings around monthly payments, and making products easier to integrate and to scale up and down as needed.”

Vendors are also offering multiple solutions, where they used to focus on one or two products. “Consumers want more choice, and vendors are giving the market what it wants. Tarsus On Demand, for example, is now offering AWS alongside Microsoft and multiple cybersecurity stacks, making us one of very few authorised AWS distributors in Africa.”

  1. Cyber insurance

As threat vectors increase and more companies are being held ransom by attackers, cyber insurance products will become more necessary, says Sunderlall. “These products have only recently started seeing the light, but they’ll become commonplace very quickly. Soon, cyber insurance will be a standard and necessary business expense, like building insurance is.”

  1. AI defences

AI has been the most talked-about topic in security globally this past year, and we’ll see more real-world use cases in 2024, says Sunderlall. “We’ve seen some great AI-based defensive tools come out, especially in email security. And it became much more accessible this past year, with products like Mimecast becoming available to end users.

“But the converse is that AI is also being used to attack systems. It’s a double-edged sword and it’s not quite clear what it’s capable of yet. We can expect to see some big developments in the field this coming year, both good and bad. It’s going to be interesting to keep an eye on these developments as they shape the future.”

The challenges posed by the sheer volume of cyber threats, combined with economic constraints, have catalysed a strategic shift in the approach to cybersecurity. The adoption of multifaceted security measures, improved email protection, flexible vendor options, the emergence of cyber insurance, and the utilisation of AI in defence mechanisms underscore a proactive and dynamic response to the growing complexity of cyber threats. While these developments herald a more secure digital environment, they also signify a new era of continuous adaptation and vigilance.

UK-based firm to establish 25MW renewable energy plant in Nigeria

Paul Omorogbe

Solar panels and wind turbines. Image used for illustrative purpose.

PRIME Teknologies, a company based in the UK and provider of renewable energy solutions, is set to boost power generation in Nigeria with the establishment of a utility-scale solar power plant in Nigeria.

The 25 megawatts (MW) photovoltaic (PV) power generating plant represents a significant step towards addressing the energy needs of Nigeria while promoting renewable energy and sustainable development.

Collaborating with its global partners in renewable energy deployment, Prime Teknologies UK said it is leveraging its expertise to implement clean energy solutions across Nigeria where communities have hybrid electricity options, with local solar plants supporting the national grid in generating, transmitting and distributing uninterrupted power.

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Heading the project is Charles Scott-Emuakpor, CEO of Prime Teknologies UK. Under his leadership, Prime Teknologies UK has assembled a team of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the Nigerian power sector, which includes Francis Okosobo-Ibe, a consulting power systems engineer and a former business leader at NEPA/PHCN.

“We are building the largest utility scale power plant in Nigeria so far,” said Scott-Emuakpor.

“One of the key drivers behind our initiative is the pressing need to address Nigeria’s energy challenges with sustainable solutions, and the Prime Solar Power Plant represents a significant milestone in our commitment to promoting clean, reliable energy sources in Nigeria and beyond.

“By incorporating innovative technologies like Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) doing the energy storing at capacity for off-peak distribution alongside PV modules doing the energy harvesting, we aim to maximise the efficiency and reliability of this renewable power plant and the many others to come.

“This approach underscores our dedication to providing clean, affordable and sustainable electricity to Nigerian homes and businesses, while also contributing to the nation’s sustainable development goals,” he said.

Uche Ndubuokwu, Operations Lead for the project, said: “Our goal is to provide electricity from a renewable source to thousands of Nigerians, thereby easing the strain on the national grid and fostering a more sustainable energy future for the country.”

In addition to collaborating with foreign partners, Prime Teknologies management said it is working closely with Federal and state governments on the project.

It is also in communication with the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), on due diligence.

Beyond its economic benefits, the company stated that its solar power plant will have a significant social impact, creating over 2000 local jobs during the construction phase and providing ongoing employment opportunities in operations and maintenance. This commitment to local empowerment aligns with the company’s vision of fostering sustainable development and addressing climate change challenges.

As Prime Teknologies UK prepares to embark on this project, the company stated that it remains dedicated to its mission of driving positive change through innovation. By leveraging innovative technologies and fostering strategic partnerships, Prime Teknologies UK is poised to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s energy sector and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

Nigeria’s FG investing in alternative energy to tackle deficit — Adelabu

Adetola Bademosi

Solar panels on the electric public bus roof in Hong Kong. Getty Images Image used for illustrative purpose

In an effort to address Nigeria’s energy deficit, the Federal Government (FG) said it is investing in alternative power sources.

This is coming on the heels of the proposed 30 Megawatts (MW) Windfall And Solar Hybrid Project at Lekki, Lagos.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu made the disclosure during a presentation on the project, Wednesday, in Abuja.

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Adelabu who was represented by the Director Procurement, Ministry of Power Mr Abdulrasheed Lawal, said the alternative sources being considered would be mini-grids, winds and solar.

He said,” We are aware that presently there is an energy deficit in the country, so we are doing everything possible to address the issue by investing in alternative sources.

“We have to think out of the box to achieve energy sufficiency; we have to look at using mini-grids, solar and wind to achieve this.”

Already, he said a 10MW windfall project is ongoing in Katsina saying; “we are trying to replicate the same in Lagos in order to ensure reliable and steady power supply in the country.

To this end, he said the project, after necessary appraisal, would be executed by Crown Resources Development Company Limited (CREDCO) in collaboration with Vergnet, a French Wind Turbine Company, based in France.

While making his presentation, the subsidiaries manager, Africa, Vergnet Mr Frederic Cheve, said the project aims to harness the abundant wind and solar resources to generate clean and reliable power while mitigating the risks associated with relying on a single source of energy.

He noted that the project whose capacity ranges between 20-30MWs wind and solar hybridised system

He said that the proposed capacity of the project was 20/30 megawatts wind and solar hybridised system will improve energy security and grid stability.

However, he said the project would be developed in phases adding that:”It will create green jobs and boost the local economy, reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and curtail greenhouse gas emissions.

“This project will contribute to achieving Nigeria’s national energy goals,”he said.

On his part, Mr Barney Ojiah, Chief Executive Officer of CREDCO, said they were in the ministry of power to make a presentation on the project and to discuss how to further improve power supply for Nigerians.

He emphasised that power was important in the lives of all Nigerians no matter how it comes.

“This is a collaborative effort between the ministry of power and CREDCO on how to achieve reliable and steady power supply, ”he said.

Nigeria inflation rises to 31.70% y/y in February

Bhargav Acharya and Elisha Bala-Gbogbo

Nigerian naira notes are seen in this picture illustration March 15, 2016 . Afolabi Sotunde/Illustration,

Nigeria’s inflation rose to 31.70% year on year in February from 29.90% in January, its bureau of statistics said on Friday. (Reporting by Bhargav Acharya and Elisha Bala-Gbogbo Editing by Alexander Winning)

Tanzania’s Young Africans eye historic Champions League upset against Mamelodi Sundowns

By DavidOchieng Mbewa

Players of Tanzanian side Young Africans (Yanga) arrive for a training session in Da es Salaam

Last season, Tanzanian club, Young Africans suffered heartache after coming close to lifting its first major continental title.

Young Africans, or Yanga, as they are affectionately known, lost a dramatic CAF Confederation Cup final to Algeria’s USM Alger. The Tanzanian side secured a 1-0 win in its second leg but a 2-1 defeat at home in the first leg meant they lost the tie on the away goals rule.

Young Africans emerged stronger this season. This time, they roared through the qualifying rounds and booked a place in the group stage of the CAF Champions League. Despite a slow start in Group D, they eventually found their footing and managed to qualify for the quarterfinals.

Now, into the quarterfinals of Africa’s premier club competition for the first time, the current Tanzanian champions hope to become the first side from East Africa to win the African Champions League. South African giants, Mamelodi Sundowns stand in Yanga’s way.

Sundowns are undoubtedly one of Africa’s biggest clubs. Dominant at home, they have won their domestic league for the last six seasons in a row. They also won the Champions League in 2016 and are the current holders of the African Football League title.

As formidable an opponent as Sundowns are, Young Africans club president Hersi Ally Said assured fans that the team is ready for a major battle to advance to the last four.

Ally stressed that home advantage and the crowd could play a big part in Yanga potentially securing a decisive advantage. Young Africans will host the first leg in Dar es Salaam on March 29-30. The second leg takes place in South Africa on April 5.

“For us, Young Africans, as a club, this is historic to be in the quarterfinal and advancing to the semifinal,” Ally said in a video message. “We need members and fans of our club to come out in numbers and support the team during the home leg that will begin here.”

“That game can be one of the chapters in the club making history in the quest to advance to the semifinal, final, and win the title.”

Young Africans may not have faced Sundowns before, but the team hopes to replicate the results of their last encounter against a South African side in CAF club competitions.

During last year’s Confederation Cup, the Tanzanian side ran out 4-1 aggregate winners against Marumo Gallants in the semifinal, winning both home and away legs.

World Bank’s women empowerment programme presents renewed hope for Nigerian women

Nigerian Tribune

Two attractive Nigerian women sitting in cafe with tablet. Female business colleagues working remotely, Nigeria, Africa . Image Courtesy: Getty Images

The wife of the governor of Kwara State and Chair, Nigeria Governors Spouses Forum, Dr Olufolake Abdulrazak, has highlighted the benefits of the Nigeria for Women Programme (NFWP).

NFWP is an initiative of the World Bank. Dr Abulrazak spoke at an event co-hosted by the World Bank, the Nigeria Governors Spouses Forum (NGSF), and the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), titled: “What works to promote Women’s Economic Empowerment, WEE in Nigeria: Lessons from Nigeria for Women Programme.”

The event took place on the sidelines of the 68th Session on the Status of Women at the United Nations Headquarters, New York, on Wednesday.

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She noted that the event highlighted “the critical importance of economic empowerment in advancing gender equality and women’s rights. It also presents a renewed hope and progress for women across Nigeria.”

According to her, “In Nigeria, as in many parts of the world, women face numerous barriers to economic participation, including limited access to education, financial resources, and market opportunities.

She, however, noted that the NFWP programme, implemented in partnership with the World Bank, “has achieved remarkable success in empowering women to start and grow their businesses, access financial services, and participate in value chains across various sectors of the economy.“By providing targeted support, including training, mentorship, access to finance, and market linkages, the programme has enabled women to overcome structural barriers and unleash their entrepreneurial spirit.”

She added that “Further to these, the programme has generated effects that extend beyond individual beneficiaries, contributing to broader socio-economic development and poverty reduction efforts.

“By empowering women as agents of change and economic drivers within their communities, the program has helped build more resilient and inclusive societies that benefit everyone.”She commended the World Bank, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the Nigeria Governors Forum and the Nigeria Governors Spouses Forum for collaborating to appraise successes recorded via the programme geared to create sustainable pathways for the economic empowerment of Nigeria women.