NAS Calls for Greater Investment in Digital Literacy in FCT

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The National Association of Seadogs, Sahara Deck (Abuja Municipal), has urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and elected officials to prioritize digital literacy among young people, particularly those in public schools across the territory.

The call was made in Abuja on Friday as part of activities to mark the 2025 International Literacy Day with the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era: Bridging the Gap.”

Speaking at the event, the Capoon of Sahara Deck, Mr. Chike Onyia, lamented the poor state of digital learning in the FCT, stressing that many schools lack basic facilities such as seats, internet access, and conducive classrooms. “We cannot talk about preparing young people for the future while our schools still struggle with basic infrastructure,” Onyia said. “Digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s knowledge-driven economy.”

He expressed concern that children from low-income homes are often left behind. “Many of our young people spend their holidays hawking on the streets instead of attending boot camps or digital training sessions. This is a dangerous trend because the global economy is moving too fast, and Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind,” Onyia noted.

The group recommended that the FCTA take stock of schools in the territory, identify gaps in staffing and infrastructure, and update curricula to meet global digital standards. “If we do not review our school curriculum to reflect digital skills, we will continue producing graduates who are unprepared for the challenges of the 21st century,” Onyia added.

Highlighting the association’s interventions, Onyia said the group has been running an “Adopt a Child School Campaign” to support indigent students and improve their digital awareness. “In Karu, we donated computer systems to the Abuja Home to expose children to technology. We have also provided learning materials to encourage literacy. These are small steps, but they show what is possible when there is commitment,” he explained.

He further called on the FCT Minister, Senator representing the FCT, and area council chairmen to show leadership by making digital literacy a top policy priority. “A situation where schools are shut down for months due to strikes is unacceptable. We must create a system where our children can learn consistently and have access to the tools they need to compete globally,” Onyia said.

The association stressed that special attention must be given to rural schools on the outskirts of the FCT. “Children in those areas are the most disadvantaged, yet they deserve the same opportunities as those in the city center. With deliberate investment in teachers, facilities, and internet access, we can close this gap,” Onyia stated.