NITDA Partners with HORSA to Deliver Digital Literacy Training in Abuja

In a bold move to deepen digital inclusion and expand women’s participation in Nigeria’s technology ecosystem, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched a capacity-building workshop aimed at empowering spouses of members of the House of Representatives with practical digital skills.

The initiative, organised in collaboration with the House of Representatives Spouses Association (HORSA), reflects a growing recognition that leadership and influence extend beyond elected officials. By equipping spouses of lawmakers with digital knowledge, the programme seeks to create informed advocates who can promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and responsible technology use within their communities.

Why This Initiative Matters

Nigeria’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, driven by government reforms, startup growth, and increasing internet penetration. However, inclusive participation remains a critical challenge. Women, especially those outside core technology sectors, often face barriers in accessing digital education and economic opportunities.

Through this workshop, NITDA is bridging that gap by targeting a unique but influential group—spouses of legislators—who play significant roles in social development initiatives, advocacy programmes, and grassroots engagement across the country.

By strengthening their digital capacity, the programme ensures they are better positioned to:

• Understand and promote digital transformation policies
• Support youth and women-led tech initiatives
• Advocate for safer and more responsible online engagement
• Encourage entrepreneurship and financial independence

Key Areas of Training

The workshop goes beyond basic computer literacy. Participants are introduced to a broad range of practical and strategic skills, including:

1. Digital Literacy and Online Safety
Understanding how to navigate digital platforms securely, protect personal information, and combat misinformation.

2. Cybersecurity Awareness
Learning how to identify online threats, prevent fraud, and safeguard digital identities—an essential skill in today’s interconnected world.

3. Digital Leadership and Influence
Exploring how technology can be leveraged to amplify advocacy, manage public communication, and engage with communities effectively.

4. Financial Confidence and Digital Entrepreneurship
Providing insights into digital business models, e-commerce opportunities, and financial management tools that can empower women economically.

5. Mental Wellbeing in the Digital Age
Addressing the pressures of public life and social media exposure, while promoting resilience and emotional balance.

Aligning With Nigeria’s Digital Transformation Goals

The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital development strategy, which prioritizes innovation, local content development, and inclusive participation in the digital economy. By extending training to spouses of lawmakers, NITDA is reinforcing the idea that digital transformation is not limited to tech professionals—it is a national movement that requires participation from all sectors of society.

This effort also complements ongoing federal programmes such as the 3 Million Technical Talent Programme (3MTT), which aims to build a globally competitive tech workforce by training millions of Nigerians in digital skills.

A Strategic Step Toward Women’s Digital Inclusion

Beyond technical training, the workshop sends a strong message about women’s leadership in Nigeria’s digital future. Empowering women with digital tools not only enhances personal growth but also strengthens families, communities, and national development.

Spouses of lawmakers often lead charitable foundations, educational outreach initiatives, and social intervention programmes. With enhanced digital knowledge, they can integrate technology into these efforts—whether through online fundraising, digital awareness campaigns, virtual mentorship programmes, or tech-driven business ventures.

The Bigger Picture

As Nigeria accelerates its journey toward a fully digital economy, initiatives like this underscore the importance of inclusive empowerment. Digital skills are no longer optional; they are essential for leadership, advocacy, entrepreneurship, and national competitiveness.

By investing in digital capacity building for women in influential positions, NITDA is not just organizing a workshop—it is helping to shape a network of digitally informed leaders who can inspire change across Nigeria.

Source: Nigeria Startup Act (www.nigeriastartupact.ng)