CSOs demand inclusion of PWDs in Nigeria’s digital literacy plan

Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), a civil society organisation focused on disability rights, says National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF) fails to consider the needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs), particularly women and girls.

At a consultative forum in Abuja on Tuesday, IFA warned that the NDLF’s current structure risks further marginalising PWDs in an increasingly digital world.

The organisation said the policy, which aims to achieve 95 percent digital literacy for Nigerians by 2030, does not explicitly mention disability or provide specific measures for inclusion.

Grace Jerry, executive director of IFA, criticised the framework for overlooking a vulnerable group that already faces significant barriers to education, employment, and access to technology.

“The NDLF merely glosses over the needs of persons with disabilities. This is unacceptable. We need a framework that truly ensures equitable access to digital opportunities for all, including those with disabilities,” she said.

The discussion at the forum revealed that disability groups were not adequately consulted when the framework was being developed, raising concerns about representation and access.

There were also questions over funding, with participants pointing out that the framework lacks a dedicated budget for disability-inclusive digital literacy programmes.

Many at the forum stressed that without concrete steps to address these issues, the framework could deepen existing inequalities.

They called for urgent revisions, including a formal addendum that would ensure PWDs, especially women and girls, are not left behind.

There was also a push for better collaboration between government agencies, disability organisations, and other stakeholders to ensure digital literacy efforts truly reflect the needs of all Nigerians.

Groups present at the meeting include the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Cedar Seed Foundation, Advocacy for Women and Girls with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI), Sauri Growth Initiative for Women and Youth with Disabilities and Neil Life Foundation for Persons with Disabilities.

Others include the Disability Advancement Initiative, Deaf Women Association Initiative (DWAI), Abuja Association of the Deaf, Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI), Women and Girls with Albinism Network (WGAN) and Albinism Aid Centre.