In an inspiring move that signals Nigeria's commitment to building a digitally empowered future, the Federal Government has inaugurated a Joint Implementation Committee dedicated to training one million Nigerians in essential digital and technology skills.

The committee was officially launched in Abuja on Tuesday by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, marking what many are calling a watershed moment in the nation's digital transformation journey. This initiative isn't just about numbers—it's about opening doors of opportunity for everyday Nigerians across all walks of life.

"This inauguration represents a significant milestone in the Federal Government's deliberate and strategic commitment to deepening national digital literacy, strengthening human capital development, and promoting inclusive digital transformation," Akume explained through his representative, Ibrahim Kana, Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office.

What makes this program particularly heartening is its intentional focus on inclusion. Priority will be given to youth eager to build their futures, women seeking economic empowerment, underserved communities that have historically faced barriers to opportunity, and persons with disabilities who deserve equal access to the digital economy.

The initiative aligns beautifully with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and supports Nigeria's ambitious goal of achieving 95% digital literacy by 2030. It's a vision that recognizes a fundamental truth: in today's interconnected world, digital skills aren't just nice to have—they're essential for economic participation and personal growth.

The committee's mandate extends beyond training alone. Members will plan and organize a National Digital Literacy Conference, bringing together minds from across sectors to share ideas and best practices. They'll coordinate with government agencies, private sector partners, educational institutions, and civil society organizations to ensure the program reaches those who need it most.

An encouraging aspect of this initiative is its funding model. While the program receives coordination support from government institutions and aligns with federal policy, it's fully funded and implemented by Clergywealth Cooperative Society Limited, demonstrating the power of public-private collaboration in driving social impact.

The committee comprises representatives from key ministries including Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Education, Youth Development, and Information and National Orientation, alongside experts from TETFund, NITDA, state governments, ICT professionals, and civil society organizations. This diverse composition ensures multiple perspectives and expertise guide the program's implementation.

The initiative builds on momentum from the 13th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy meeting held in December 2025, which adopted the Future Proof Economy model as the national framework for digital literacy delivery.

With built-in monitoring, evaluation, and reporting mechanisms, the committee will track progress and ensure quality throughout the journey. They'll also document lessons learned and best practices, creating a foundation for potentially expanding the program beyond the initial one million beneficiaries.

This is more than a training program—it's an investment in Nigeria's greatest resource: its people. As the nation embraces digital transformation, one million Nigerians will gain skills that can change their lives, support their families, and contribute to building a more prosperous, connected Nigeria for everyone.