No fewer than 18,193 individuals have benefited from the European Union-funded digital training skills programme in Borno and Yobe.
The initiative aimed to reduce the digital gender gap and address digital exclusion among vulnerable groups, while strengthening community-level capacity in fragile and conflict-affected contexts.
The programme’s closing ceremony, held in Maiduguri, according to a statement by the EU on Friday, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives of the European Union, implementing partners, civil society organisations, and state government officials, to review achievements and share lessons learned.
Funded by the European Union with €750,000 and implemented by ZOA International from 2023 to 2026, the programme focused on expanding access to digital skills, narrowing the digital divide, and strengthening the capacity of grassroots civil society organisations across 30 communities in Borno and Yobe states.
Speaking at the event, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Massimo De Luca, highlighted the programme’s emphasis on inclusive, people-centred digital development.
“This project shows how well-targeted digital investments can deliver lasting impact—by empowering communities, strengthening local institutions, and supporting inclusive economic growth,” De Luca said.
ZOA Programme Manager Godwin Dominic presented an overview of the programme’s achievements, stating that “18,193 individuals were trained, 32 IT hubs were established, and a Digital Literacy Working Group was formed to enhance coordination and sustainability.”
He further noted that six schools were also equipped with access to IT services, broadening opportunities for digital learning and skills development in Borno and Yobe states.
The programme has contributed to inclusive economic participation and community resilience in North-East Nigeria, with partners committed to sustaining the digital infrastructure, skills, and local capacity built through the programme.
So far, the EU has committed significant funding to support Nigeria’s digital transformation, including: €45 million to enhance the 3MTT programme and expand nationwide fibre connectivity; €820 million Digital Economy Package, launched in 2022, focusing on connectivity, digital skills, entrepreneurship, and governance.
