The Nigerian Government has called on citizens to prioritise investment in mass literacy, stressing that the nation’s sustainable development and future prosperity depend on it.
Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, made the appeal in Abuja during an event marking the 58th International Literacy Day, themed “Promoting Literacy in a Digital Era.” She emphasised that achieving nationwide literacy is a shared responsibility, as the government cannot accomplish it alone.
Professor Ahmad urged: “I invite every Nigerian to invest in mass literacy, because the future of our nation depends on it. Through our call to action, ‘Each One, Teach One or Fund the Teaching of One,’ we can turn this vision into reality. Whether by sharing knowledge or supporting those who do, each of us has a role to play.”
She added that empowering even a single individual with literacy has a multiplier effect, unlocking the potential of families, uplifting communities, and laying the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
On the significance of this year’s theme, Professor Ahmad said: “Promoting literacy in a digital era reflects today’s realities, where the ability to read, write, and engage digitally is no longer a luxury but a necessity. From mobile learning platforms to radio and television programmes, we are using technology to reach learners in cities, villages, IDP camps, and remote communities.”
The Minister highlighted the adoption of proven models such as Cuba’s Yes, I Can, adapted to local contexts, ensuring literacy is not merely taught, but integrated into daily life. She stressed that literacy forms the foundation of development, prompting the Ministry to expand access for youth and adults aged 15 and above.
“We are conducting a nationwide mapping exercise to identify those who are out of school or non-literate. This will enable us to enrol millions into literacy programmes that are relevant, inclusive, and empowering. Our goal is to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4.6, which targets literacy and numeracy for all youth and a substantial proportion of adults by 2030,” she said.
The Minister also detailed the Ministry’s efforts in training facilitators, developing culturally relevant materials, and building community learning centres. She called on development partners, civil society, traditional leaders, and the private sector to join the government in this shared mission, emphasising that literacy is a collective responsibility.
In his remarks, the Acting Head of Sector Education at UNESCO, Oladeji Adeyemi, highlighted the contemporary significance of literacy, describing it as a critical skill for navigating a digital world. He applauded Nigeria’s initiatives, including the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), which prioritises reducing out-of-school children, and reaffirmed UNESCO’s support in teacher training, skills development, and promoting media and information literacy.
Dr. John Edeh, Acting Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC), described International Literacy Day as a call to action, reiterating that literacy is a right for all, particularly adults and adolescents who have never attended school or left early. He noted that NMEC’s digital enrolment programmes are already exceeding targets.
“For example, our target for digital enrolment of youth and adults aged 15 and above in Abuja Municipal Area Council was 3,876 learners. As of today, over 27,000 learners have been enrolled in literacy and empowerment programmes across communities such as Apo Mechanic Village, Karonmajigi, Lugbe, Dogongada, Apo Resettlement, Gwarinpa, Kubwa Village, Mararaba, Kurudu, and Gwagwalada,” Dr. Edeh said.
He added that the initiative will soon expand to all 377 local government areas across the 36 states and the FCT, using 17 community learning centres and digital tools including radio, TV, and mobile apps to make learning accessible, flexible, and relevant.
