Nigeria launches digital skills certification to bridge ICT gapNew programme aims to boost employability and position nation as tech leader
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The Nigerian government has unveiled a major initiative to close the country’s digital skills gap with the launch of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) Certificate Licensing Programme. The scheme, introduced on March 4, 2025, at DBI’s Lagos campus, seeks to equip individuals with globally recognised ICT certifications, enhancing employability and strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy.
David Daser, President and Chief Executive Officer of DBI, described the programme as a pivotal step in addressing the country’s growing need for digital expertise. “This marks a crucial moment in Nigeria’s efforts to equip its citizens with the necessary skills to thrive in the modern economy. We are creating pathways for growth, empowering individuals, and positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global digital space,” Daser stated.
The DBI, operating under the Nigerian Communications Commission, has been a key player in ICT education, collaborating with global technology firms such as Cisco, Microsoft, and Huawei. These partnerships enable DBI to offer training that meets international standards, ensuring that Nigerian graduates are competitive in the global digital marketplace.
Urgent need for digital skills
The urgency of the initiative is underscored by concerning statistics. A UNICEF report reveals that only 7% of Nigerians aged 15-24 possess marketable ICT skills, leaving the majority unprepared for the digital economy. Similarly, a 2020 Palladium Group report found that over half of Nigerian youth are either unemployed or underemployed due to a mismatch between education and job market needs.
In response, the newly launched Global Certification and Training Partnership Programme (GTP/GCP) will license DBI’s training programmes to institutions and trainers nationwide, ensuring accessibility even in underserved regions. “This initiative is not just for Lagos; we are taking digital training to every corner of Nigeria,” Daser affirmed.
The programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic growth, job creation, and youth empowerment. Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, praised the initiative, stating, “This programme ensures our youth are not left behind in the digital age.”
A global opportunity
Highlighting the economic implications, Dr Niran Oyekale, Chairman of Commit Technology and Consult Ltd, warned that the global economy could face a shortfall of 85 million skilled workers—a gap worth $8.5 trillion. He stressed that Nigeria’s youthful population could play a key role in bridging this gap if equipped with the right skills.
The DBI Certificate Licensing Programme is expected to boost job creation, innovation, and economic diversification, setting Nigeria on a path to becoming a global ICT powerhouse. “This is not just about training—it is about creating opportunities and securing Nigeria’s place in the digital future,” Daser added.
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