Lagos: The UK Government, under its Digital Access Programme, has partnered with Blue Sapphire Hub to expand digital literacy and inclusion in rural communities across northern Nigeria.
In a statement on Wednesday, the British mission said the collaboration aimed to empower underserved populations in targeted states by leveraging storytelling.
This would be through digital influencers and community-driven initiatives to bridge the digital divide and unlock economic opportunities.
The mission said that discussions during a recent high-level stakeholder meeting centred on practical strategies to ensure that technology becomes a tool for progress and equality.
“Stakeholders agreed to scale digital literacy programmes in rural communities by deploying digital influencers who can champion safe and inclusive technology use.
“In addition, participants are committed to supporting local innovators and startups through structured mentorship and funding opportunities, enabling them to develop solutions tailored to regional challenges.
“The event also produced policy recommendations aimed at integrating digital safety and inclusion into state-level strategies, ensuring that adoption efforts are sustainable and secure,” the mission said.
Mujina Kaindama, Head of Trade Policy and Market Access, UK Department for Business and Trade, said the initiative demonstrated how storytelling could drive policy and inspire action.
“We are proud to support efforts that promote digital inclusion and create opportunities for all.”
Commending the initiative, Dr Mukhtar Abdu, National Coordinator, Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain, highlighted mentorship as a critical enabler for unlocking youth potential.
According to him, mentorship remains one of the most powerful tools for unlocking the potential of young people.
“Many youths have creativity and ambition, but without guidance, they struggle to navigate the digital landscape.
“Fasahar Zamani is a timely initiative that provides the support, safe spaces and direction they need to adopt technology confidently.
“With the right mentorship, our youths can innovate, grow and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s digital future,” he said.
The British mission also said a 12-part short film was developed under the Accelerating Digital Adoption in Northern Nigeria initiative.
