EU Digital Skills Initiative Trains Over 18,000 Beneficiaries In Borno, Yobe
The European Union (EU) has successfully concluded its Digital Skills Promotion Programme aimed at advancing inclusive growth and digital inclusion in North-East Nigeria, following three years of targeted interventions in Borno and Yobe States.
The initiative, which focused on women, hard-to-reach youth, and persons with disabilities, was designed to bridge the digital gender gap, reduce digital exclusion, and strengthen community-level capacity in fragile and conflict-affected environments.
The programme’s closing ceremony, held in Maiduguri on February 4, 2026, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives of the European Union, implementing partners, civil society organisations, and officials of state governments, to review achievements and share lessons learned.
Funded by the European Union with €750,000, the programme was implemented by ZOA International between 2023 and 2026. It supported digital skills development and institutional strengthening across 30 communities in Borno and Yobe States.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Massimo De Luca, highlighted the importance of inclusive, people-centred digital development.
According to him, the programme demonstrates how strategic digital investments can generate lasting impact by empowering communities, strengthening local institutions, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
“Digital inclusion is not a luxury; it is a necessity for resilience, innovation, and meaningful participation in today’s economy,” De Luca said, stressing that access to digital skills is critical for stability and long-term recovery in conflict-affected regions.
He added that the EU, through its Global Gateway strategy, remains committed to ensuring that digital skills development translates into real economic value, including job creation, enterprise growth, and sustainable community resilience.
Providing an overview of the programme’s outcomes, ZOA Programme Manager, Mr. Godwin Dominic, said the initiative recorded significant achievements across target communities.
He disclosed that a total of 18,193 individuals were trained, 32 IT hubs were established, and a Digital Literacy Working Group was formed to enhance coordination and sustainability. In addition, six schools were equipped with access to IT services to expand digital learning opportunities.
Representing the Borno State Government, the Executive Secretary of the Borno Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (BICTDA), Engr. Mohammed Kabir Wanori, commended the programme for aligning with state development priorities and for strengthening opportunities for women and youth.
As the programme comes to an end, partners reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the digital infrastructure, skills development, and local capacity built through the initiative, ensuring continued support for inclusive economic participation and community resilience in North-East Nigeria.
