A non-governmental organisation, Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI), has empowered 30 residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with in-demand digital skills, including data analytics, computer software applications and web design as part of efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote youth employment.
The beneficiaries, drawn from five communities which include Guape, Apo, Gosa, Ketti and Angwan Sayawa, graduated from the organisation’s pilot digital skills programme in Abuja.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Convener of URNI, Abdulkadir Lawal, called on the federal government and other stakeholders to partner with the organisation in expanding grassroots digital literacy programmes across Nigeria.
He described technology-driven empowerment as one of the most effective tools for combating unemployment, poverty and social vices among young people.
Lawal explained that the organisation, established in 2007, was founded to promote Nigeria’s image while empowering citizens through education, entrepreneurship and digital innovation.
According to him, what started as an informal conversation among friends on how to contribute to national development has evolved into a youth-focused initiative committed to community transformation through technology.
He noted that the organisation initially focused on training graduates in computer and vocational skills while facilitating opportunities abroad for some beneficiaries through partnerships with Nigerians in the diaspora.
Lawal said the initiative later shifted its attention to underserved communities after its diaspora partners challenged the organisation to provide digital education to people with little or no computer knowledge.
He stressed that digital literacy has become indispensable in today’s technology-driven economy, noting that virtually every occupation now requires some level of digital competence.
“Everything today revolves around technology. Whether you are a trader or a business owner, computer knowledge helps you grow faster. Our goal is to equip Nigerians with practical digital skills that will transform their lives and make them productive citizens,” he added.
Lawal disclosed that although 30 participants enrolled in the pilot programme, 27 successfully completed the training.
He added that the organisation plans to mentor outstanding graduates and support them to work collaboratively on innovative projects capable of developing into sustainable businesses.
According to him, the initiative is designed not only to equip participants with technical knowledge but also to redirect young people away from crime, cultism and drug abuse by exposing them to productive opportunities.
Lawal revealed that the entire training programme was offered free of charge, with participants also receiving meals throughout the period.
He appealed for government intervention to enable the organisation scale up its operations, noting that demand for the programme has continued to outstrip available capacity.
Lawal disclosed that URNI is relocating to a larger training facility capable of accommodating about 500 participants at a time.
He further unveiled the organisation’s long-term vision of establishing technology hubs in every ward across Nigeria to make digital education accessible to young people at the grassroots.
Lawal added that the initiative is being implemented in partnership with Friends of Nigeria, a network of Nigerians in Europe supporting youth empowerment and digital inclusion projects in the country.
Also, the special guest of honour, Peter Enenche, urged the graduates to deploy their newly acquired knowledge in addressing societal challenges and contributing to national development.
Enenche charged the graduates to see themselves as solution providers rather than contributors to society’s problems.
Reflecting on his personal experience, he recalled that he only had access to a computer after graduating from the university, unlike today’s generation that has greater access to digital technology.