The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has commissioned a Digital Learning Centre at Ujabhole Grammar School, Irrua, Edo State, under the Renewed Hope Initiative. The project aims to promote digital literacy, enhance access to quality education, and bridge the educational divide in Nigeria.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, which was held simultaneously across ten states in the country, Senator Tinubu explained through a virtual connection that the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with essential information communication technology (ICT) skills. She said the project aligns with the mandate of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to drive digital inclusion and expand learning opportunities.
In her words, “Today’s commissioning presents another opportunity under the mandate of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, to further expand digital access across the country by providing communities with the resources required to develop ICT skills, thereby empowering our people to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.”
She added that the project supports the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on diversifying Nigeria’s economy through digitalization. Senator Tinubu urged beneficiaries, particularly young people, to make full use of the facilities to improve learning, creativity, entrepreneurship, and national development.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, emphasized that the initiative aims to transform Nigeria by empowering citizens with digital knowledge that drives innovation, economic diversification, and inclusive growth. He revealed that the government plans to establish 592 digital learning centres across the country by 2027, focusing on digital inclusion and access, especially for women and youths.
According to Abdullahi, “The goal is to empower citizens with the digital skills needed to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national growth. Digital literacy benefits everyone, from farmers and traders to entrepreneurs, by increasing opportunities, productivity, and revenue.”
The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady in Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, expressed appreciation to Senator Tinubu and other stakeholders for their efforts in promoting technology-driven education. She highlighted that the new Centre represents a strong commitment to innovation and the use of digital tools for educational progress.
“I am deeply honoured to speak to you today as we gather to commission the Digital Learning Center, established by Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu through her pet project, the Renewed Hope. This Digital Centre stands as a testament to our dedication to revolutionizing learning through technology. Our students will gain the necessary skills to compete and excel in the 21st-century economy,” Mrs. Anani said.
She encouraged students to take advantage of the Digital Learning Centre, describing it as a hub for knowledge, creativity, and innovation. Mrs. Anani also urged teachers to integrate digital tools into classroom activities to enhance learning outcomes. She reaffirmed her office’s commitment to promoting education, innovation, and empowerment, stating that education remains key to unlocking young people’s potential and driving national development.
The Principal of Ujabhole Grammar School, Mr. Asemota Unity, expressed gratitude to the First Lady and Mrs. Anani for their efforts in promoting digital learning. He called for the deployment of digital-based teachers to ensure that the Centre achieves its full potential, adding that the school remains committed to providing quality education.
Teachers and students of the school also appreciated Senator Tinubu for the ICT facility, describing it as a major step forward in improving their academic experience. They said the Digital Learning Centre, facilitated through the Renewed Hope Initiative, would help students gain essential ICT skills and better prepare them for opportunities in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.