Nigeria’s NITDA and Cisco Strengthen Digital Skills Training

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA),  in partnership with Cisco , convened the English West and Central Africa Instructor Safari Conference 2026 at the UBEC Digital Resource Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, to strengthen digital skills development and prepare learners for the future of work.

The conference brought together instructors, partners and stakeholders to discuss ways to expand digital literacy, improve access to industry-relevant training and equip learners with practical skills for the evolving digital economy.

The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of integrating digital literacy into formal education. He also emphasised expanding access to relevant training and strengthening collaboration between educational institutions and industry to empower young Nigerians to participate in the digital economy.

NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, delivered a special address on the future of work, drawing on his experience as a Cisco Networking Academy alumnus. He emphasised the importance of lifelong learning, continuous upskilling and adaptability in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Inuwa also encouraged instructors to look beyond standard certifications by equipping learners with practical competencies, critical thinking and problem-solving skills that enable them to address real-world challenges.

The conference aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on human capital development and economic growth through digitalisation.

Through its collaboration with Cisco, NITDA aims to expand digital literacy, increase access to industry-ready training and develop a digitally skilled workforce capable of supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation.