Digital Economy transforming education, redefining role of Nigerian teachers –NITDA

*Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency, affirms the rapid expansion of Nigeria Digital Economy is significantly, transforming the education sector and redefining the role of teachers in the West African country

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has emphasised the increasing exposure of students to the digital world, and responsibility of teachers to guide them safely within the ecosystem.

NITDA said that formed the focus of recent discussions at the Stakeholders’ Dialogue on Teachers’ Role in Safeguarding Students’ Digital Exposure, held at Novare Central Mall.

ConsumerConnect reports Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of NITDA, noted this in a keynote address, titled: “Nigeria’s Current Digital Landscape: Our Reality and Its Practical Connection to Education”.

Represented on the occasion by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, Director of Stakeholders Management and Partnerships at NITDA, Inuwa stressed the rapid expansion of the emerging Nigeria Digital Economy is significantly, transforming the education sector and redefining the role of teachers in the country.

The Director-General of the Information Technology (IT) sector regulatory agency also explained while digital technologies have created unprecedented access to knowledge, information, and opportunities for students, they equally require responsible guidance.

Inuwa asserted that teachers must play a central role in helping students to navigate the digital environment wisely, enabling them to identify credible information, avoid harmful content, and develop responsible online behaviour.

According to him, the responsibilities of educators have evolved beyond simply transmitting knowledge.

The Director-General emphasised that teachers are now expected to act as navigators of information, mentors who cultivate critical thinking, and guardians of digital responsibility in an increasingly technology-driven learning environment.

Inuwa reiterated NITDA’s commitment to advancing digital literacy across the country through initiatives, including the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) programme, strategic partnerships with the education sector, and capacity-building programmes aimed at equipping teachers with the skills required to prepare students for Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital future.