The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing mass literacy and bridging the digital divide as it marked the 2025 International Literacy Day in Abuja under the theme: “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.”
At a ministerial press briefing organized by the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC), the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmed, emphasized that literacy is the foundation of national development. Speaking under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister stated that the government is determined to ensure that all Nigerians, regardless of age or background, have access to inclusive and quality education.
Professor Ahmed noted that this year marks the 58th National Literacy Day and highlighted the Ministry’s adoption of a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify out-of-school children and adults. She emphasized that reliable data is key to enrolling millions into literacy programs that are inclusive, empowering, and relevant to modern needs, while ensuring accuracy, transparency, and effectiveness in the management of education data.
The Minister stressed that Nigeria is working toward its 2030 development goals with education at the centre, deploying technology to extend literacy to urban areas, villages, IDP camps, and remote communities. She called on development partners, civil society organizations, and traditional leaders to support the vision of a nation where no one is left behind.
The Acting Executive Secretary of NMEC, Dr. John Edeh Onimisi, highlighted that literacy must be recognized as a right for all Nigerians, particularly adults and adolescents who missed out on education due to conflict, health challenges, early pregnancy, or orphanhood. He revealed that while the initial digital enrollment target for Abuja Municipal Area Council was 3,876 learners, the initiative has already exceeded expectations with over 27,000 individuals enrolled nationwide.
Dr. Onimisi further explained that NMEC’s digital education initiative—leveraging radio, television, and mobile applications—is making learning more accessible and relevant, with plans to scale across all 36 states and the FCT’s 377 local government areas. The initiative, he said, demonstrates its potential to transform underserved communities by boosting digital literacy, equipping learners with skills, and preparing Nigerians for active participation in the digital economy.
Delivering a goodwill message, Director General of UNESCO, Mr. Oladeji Adeyemi, affirmed that literacy in the 21st century extends beyond reading and writing. He emphasized that it empowers citizens to think critically, navigate digital tools, and thrive in a technology-driven world. Mr. Adeyemi reiterated UNESCO’s belief that literacy is a fundamental human right and a catalyst for sustainable development, peace, and social inclusion, highlighting ongoing collaborations with Nigeria in teacher training, skills development, and media and information literacy.
The 2025 International Literacy Day celebrations underscored the government’s dedication to inclusive education and digital empowerment, signaling a renewed push to equip Nigerians with the tools to succeed in the modern economy.
Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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