The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving 95 per cent digital literacy in Nigeria by 2031, while pledging full support for the forthcoming StartupSouth annual conference in Port Harcourt.
The agency’s position highlights the importance of digital skills development and technology entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s efforts to expand its digital economy. It also places renewed attention on the role of industry conferences in connecting startups, investors, businesses and other stakeholders working to strengthen the country’s technology ecosystem.
By supporting StartupSouth, NITDA is underscoring the relationship between digital literacy, innovation and the ability of Nigerians to participate effectively in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
NITDA Reaffirms Digital Literacy Ambition
NITDA’s target of achieving 95 per cent digital literacy by 2031 reflects an ambitious goal to expand the ability of Nigerians to use digital technologies effectively.
Digital literacy extends beyond the ability to operate a smartphone or computer. It includes using online platforms, accessing digital services, evaluating information, communicating safely online and understanding basic cybersecurity practices.
These skills have become increasingly important as businesses, educational institutions and government agencies adopt digital tools to improve service delivery and productivity.
However, reaching a target of this scale requires sustained investment in training, infrastructure, access to devices and affordable internet connectivity. It also requires programmes that respond to the different needs of students, workers, entrepreneurs, rural communities and people with limited exposure to digital technology.
NITDA’s renewed commitment places these priorities within the broader conversation about preparing Nigerians for emerging opportunities in the digital economy.
StartupSouth Conference Gets NITDA’s Support
The agency has also expressed full support for the forthcoming StartupSouth annual conference in Port Harcourt, an event focused on technology entrepreneurship and the development of the startup ecosystem.
Industry conferences can provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to showcase products, exchange ideas, build partnerships and engage with potential investors and customers.
For startups, access to such networks can be particularly valuable. Early-stage businesses often need more than technical expertise to grow; they also require funding, market access, mentorship and relationships with established companies.
NITDA’s support for the conference highlights the potential value of collaboration between public institutions and private-sector stakeholders in promoting innovation.
Further details about the agency’s planned participation and specific activities at the event would clarify how its support will translate into opportunities for participating entrepreneurs.
Connecting Digital Skills With Entrepreneurship
Digital literacy and startup development are closely connected. As more Nigerians acquire digital skills, they can gain greater access to technology-related jobs, online services and opportunities to establish businesses.
At the same time, startups can create demand for specialised skills in software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, digital marketing and other technology-related fields.
A stronger relationship between digital skills programmes and entrepreneurship initiatives could help young people apply their knowledge to practical business challenges.
For example, individuals with digital skills may be better positioned to develop online services, support businesses with technology adoption or create solutions for challenges in agriculture, commerce, education and healthcare.
Nevertheless, digital literacy alone does not guarantee employment or business success. Access to finance, reliable infrastructure, relevant training and market opportunities also influence whether people can convert their skills into sustainable livelihoods.
Addressing Barriers to Digital Participation
Achieving widespread digital literacy will require attention to barriers that prevent some Nigerians from accessing or using technology effectively.
These include the cost of internet access and digital devices, limited connectivity in underserved communities, gaps in training opportunities and concerns about online safety.
Digital education programmes can help address some of these challenges by combining practical training with awareness of cybersecurity, privacy and responsible technology use.
Partnerships involving government agencies, educational institutions, telecommunications providers, businesses and community organisations can also help extend training opportunities to different population groups.
Measuring progress consistently will be important. Clear indicators of digital literacy, transparent reporting and periodic assessments can help establish whether programmes are reaching intended beneficiaries and producing meaningful improvements.
Port Harcourt and Nigeria’s Technology Ecosystem
The forthcoming StartupSouth conference provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing technology entrepreneurs.
Events of this nature can encourage collaboration across the startup community and create opportunities for businesses to connect with investors, potential customers and support organisations.
They can also bring attention to the need for stronger regional technology ecosystems, where entrepreneurs can access networks and resources without relying exclusively on established technology centres.
For the conference to deliver lasting value, the relationships developed during the event will need to translate into practical outcomes, such as investment discussions, commercial partnerships, mentorship and continued collaboration.
NITDA’s backing signals institutional support for these efforts, although the scale of the impact will depend on the specific activities undertaken and the opportunities made available to participants.
Turning the 2031 Target Into Progress
NITDA’s commitment to 95 per cent digital literacy by 2031 and its support for StartupSouth reflect two related priorities: expanding digital participation and strengthening the businesses that can drive innovation.
The digital literacy target will require sustained implementation, broad access to training and reliable measurement of progress. Meanwhile, supporting the startup ecosystem can help connect skilled Nigerians with opportunities to develop and commercialise technology solutions.
Ultimately, progress will depend on whether these commitments lead to measurable improvements in digital skills, wider technology adoption and stronger opportunities for entrepreneurs.
By linking digital literacy ambitions with engagement across the startup community, NITDA is placing skills development and innovation within the wider effort to expand Nigeria’s digital economy.
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