UK launches strategy to promote digital skills for one million Nigerians
The strategy aims to accelerate digital transformation, reduce digital divides by half, enhance digital responsibility, and utilize digital technology to achieve environmental objectives.
With the announcement of the Digital Development Strategy (DDS) 2024–2030 on 18 March 2024, the United Kingdom formally committed to working with Nigeria and other countries to promote an inclusive, responsible, and sustainable digital future. The DDS’s main goal is accelerating digital transformation, halving digital divides, promoting digital responsibility, and leveraging digital technology for environmental goals.
At a workshop organized by the British High Commission in Lagos, Digital Access Programme Adviser and Country Lead Idongesit Udoh outlined the Digital Development Strategy (DDS) 2024-2030 goals for Nigeria. It includes expanding last-mile connectivity, improving national digital services, establishing responsible AI regulatory frameworks and research lab in universities, and empowering 50 million women and girls in Nigeria and worldwide.
Why does it matter?
This announcement reflects the UK’s commitment to deepening ties with Nigeria in advancing digitalization. A notable example of previous efforts include the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, launched in 2019 as part of the International Tech Hub Network. It has supported 168 tech-enabled SMEs and early-stage startups while engaging with 55 investors. Over the next three years, the Hub aims to enhance Nigeria’s tech ecosystem by shaping policy, supporting startups despite slowing investment, expanding the talent pool, and fostering sustainable digital communities.
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