The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has called for deliberate inclusion of persons with special needs in the agency’s programmes and policies to drive Nigeria’s digital literacy and technological growth.
During a strategic meeting with the Inclusive Friends Association, led by Executive Director Grace Jerry, at NITDA’s headquarters, Inuwa emphasized the need to intentionally design initiatives that accommodate the estimated 35 million Nigerians living with special needs.
“There is no way we can achieve 95% digital inclusion if we exclude 35 million Nigerians,” the DG stated, highlighting the importance of inclusive programming.
While NITDA has historically conducted targeted training for persons with special needs, Inuwa pledged to broaden these efforts across the country. “Our offices are equipped to cater for that, and recruitment reflects this commitment. Now, we must extend this inclusion in all our programs,” he said.
He proposed the formal involvement of disability representatives in national ICT committees to help shape standards, curricula, and policies, thereby ensuring stronger and more effective implementation.
The DG also suggested incorporating special needs considerations into national initiatives such as NYSC tech programs, women’s training cohorts, and upcoming tech conferences, underscoring the agency’s focus on empowerment beyond basic training. “The goal is to train people to use IT to grow their businesses and improve their lives,” he explained.
Reaffirming NITDA’s commitment to collaboration, Inuwa invited disability organizations to partner in building a digital economy that work for everyone. “IT is a vital tool, and everyone, regardless of ability, must be equipped to use it,” he concluded.
Ms. Jerry, in her remarks, expressed appreciation and underscored the digital divide affecting persons with disabilities, especially women in northern Nigeria. She urged that the government’s target of 95% digital literacy by 2030 must be truly inclusive to avoid leaving millions behind.
“Digital literacy is a foundational skill for employment. Without deliberate inclusion, millions will be excluded,” she warned.
