The Federal Government has restated its determination to tackle illiteracy and promote inclusive learning, especially in the digital era.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, gave the assurance in Abuja on Monday during a press briefing to mark the 2025 International Literacy Day, themed “Promoting Literacy in a Digital Era.”
Describing literacy as the foundation of development, Ahmad said the Ministry, under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is taking bold steps to expand access to learning opportunities.
“Today marks the 58th International Literacy Day, a day that reminds us of the power of words, the strength of knowledge, and the promise of opportunity,” she said.
The Minister disclosed that the Ministry is conducting a nationwide mapping exercise to identify out-of-school children and non-literate adults. The data, she explained, would be used to enrol millions into inclusive literacy programmes tailored to meet local needs.
Nigeria, she added, is embracing the digital age by deploying mobile learning platforms, radio and TV programmes, and adapting global models such as Cuba’s “Yes, I Can” for use in communities, including rural areas and IDP camps.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to SDG 4.6—achieving universal literacy and numeracy by 2030—Ahmad said facilitators are being trained, culturally relevant materials are being developed, and community learning centres are being strengthened.
“But more than that, we are building hope—hope that every Nigerian, regardless of age or background, can learn, grow, and thrive,” she added.
She called on civil society, traditional leaders, the private sector, and development partners to support government efforts, stressing that literacy is a shared responsibility.
Also speaking, Oladeji Adeyemi, Acting Head of Education at UNESCO, described literacy as both a fundamental human right and a driver of sustainable development, peace, and inclusion. He lauded the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) for prioritising out-of-school children and pledged UNESCO’s continued partnership in teacher training, skills development, and media and information literacy.
“Literacy is no longer just about reading and writing on paper; it is about empowering citizens to thrive in a world shaped by digital technology,” Adeyemi noted.
On his part, Dr. John Onimisi, Acting Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC), announced that the commission had exceeded its enrolment target in the FCT.
He explained that NMEC initially aimed to enrol 3,876 youths and adults into literacy and empowerment programmes but had already registered more than 27,000 learners across communities including Apo, Lugbe, Kubwa, Kurudu, and Gwagwalada.
“We set out with a modest goal and we have already surpassed it. But we are not stopping here,” Onimisi said, adding that the programme will now be expanded to 377 local government areas nationwide through 17 community learning centres.
Elijah Adeyemi
