Introducing the Digital Awareness and Sensitisation Fora
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is preparing to host the first-ever edition of its Digital Awareness and Sensitisation Fora. This event aims to foster policy development and innovation for Nigeria’s digital future, with a strong emphasis on digital access and equity. The forum is scheduled to take place on 13 November 2025, under the theme “Leaving No One Behind: Digital Assets, Equity, and Empowerment.” It will bring together a diverse group of participants, including industry experts, policymakers, community stakeholders, academia, and development partners.
Objectives of the Forum
The primary goal of the forum is to create an environment that encourages innovation and inclusion. To achieve this, the event will focus on four key areas:
- Designing inclusive digital policies: Ensuring that all citizens have equal opportunities to participate in the digital economy.
- Promoting accessible infrastructure deployment: Expanding digital infrastructure to underserved regions.
- Developing adaptive digital literacy programmes: Enhancing digital skills across different age groups and communities.
- Advocating affordable and accessible digital services: Making sure that digital tools and services are available to everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Importance of Digital Inclusion
Nigeria is home to a significant portion of Africa’s young population, with 60 per cent of its people under the age of 25. This demographic represents a vast potential for growth in the digital economy. As Nnenna Ukoha, Head of Public Affairs at NCC, stated, “We must ensure no one is left behind.”
The forum will serve as a platform for discussing practical solutions to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide. It will highlight the importance of digital inclusion and how it can drive national development.
Key Stakeholders Involved
The event is a collaborative effort involving various key stakeholders, such as:
- Universal Service Provision Fund
- National Orientation Agency
- National Council of Women Societies
- Association of Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria
- FintechNGR
- KOICA
- Terra Industries
- Association of Nigerian Inventors
- Nigerian Universities Commission
- Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities
- Imose Technologies
- National Board for Technical Education
These organizations will play a crucial role in shaping the discussions and outcomes of the forum.
Activities and Participation
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in panel discussions and exhibitions by innovators, fintech organizations, and students. These activities will showcase innovations that reflect the creativity and potential of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
The event will also be livestreamed nationwide via the portal at scf.ncc.gov.ng, ensuring broad access and participation. This approach will allow individuals from all over Nigeria to benefit from the insights and discussions taking place at the forum.
Impact on National Development
The NCC has emphasized that the forum will not only advance digital literacy and accessibility but also promote equity, empowerment, and national development. By ensuring that underserved communities can participate meaningfully in the digital economy, the event will contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.