Nigeria has one of the largest internet populations in Africa, with more than 160 million active internet subscriptions, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission. Yet access has expanded faster than digital literacy. Many Nigerians who spend hours online each day still struggle with the deeper competencies needed for work, education and business in a digital economy.

Estimates suggest that about 50 percent of Nigerians have some level of digital literacy, up from roughly 44 percent recorded in 2021, according to the National Information Technology Development Agency. This reflects the rapid spread of smartphones and internet services across the country.

Even with that progress, the numbers reveal a significant skills gap. Digital literacy goes beyond browsing social media or sending messages. It includes the ability to search for reliable information, use productivity tools, evaluate content critically and protect personal data. For millions of Nigerians, these skills are still developing.

The gap between access and ability becomes more visible as everyday life moves online. Job applications, banking services, business marketing and education increasingly depend on digital platforms. Without the skills to navigate these tools, many people struggle to fully benefit from the opportunities created by the digital economy.

Access is expanding faster than digital skills

The growth of internet access in Nigeria has been driven largely by mobile technology. Affordable smartphones and expanding mobile broadband networks have brought millions of people online over the past decade.

Research suggests that around 68 percent of Nigerians can use smartphones at a basic level, allowing them to browse the internet, communicate through messaging applications and access social media. However, deeper digital competence remains far less common.

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Only about 39 percent of Nigerians are able to use laptops or tablets effectively, highlighting a divide between basic mobile familiarity and broader computer literacy. This matters because many professional and academic tasks require skills beyond smartphone use.

The divide is particularly visible in the labour market. Studies on workforce readiness indicate that about 85 percent of Nigerian graduates lack adequate digital skills for modern workplaces. Employers across sectors, including finance, technology, media and administration, often report difficulties finding candidates comfortable working with digital tools.

While connectivity has expanded rapidly, practical digital skills have not always kept pace with access to technology.

Education and infrastructure continue to influence the gap

The uneven spread of digital literacy is closely tied to broader challenges in education and infrastructure.

Access to digital learning opportunities remains limited for many young Nigerians, particularly in rural communities. According to UNICEF, more than 28 million Nigerian children and young people lack access to digital learning opportunities, restricting early exposure to computers and online education.

Connectivity also remains uneven. Broadband penetration stands at roughly 48 percent, meaning a significant portion of the population still relies on slower or unstable internet connections. In areas where connectivity is unreliable or expensive, opportunities to practise and develop digital skills are limited.

Electricity supply adds another layer of difficulty. Frequent power interruptions make it challenging for households, schools and small businesses to rely consistently on computers and internet devices.

Gender disparities further shape the digital landscape. Studies show that men are more likely than women to use mobile internet services, reflecting broader inequalities in access to education, income and technology.

Digital literacy and the future of work

Nigeria’s technology sector has grown rapidly in recent years, with expansion in digital payments, online commerce, financial technology and creative industries. The country has become a major technology hub in Africa, attracting investment and producing globally recognised startups.

Yet the growth of the digital economy has highlighted the importance of digital skills. Participation in advanced areas such as software development, data analysis, cybersecurity and digital product design remains concentrated among a relatively small segment of the population.

Digital literacy increasingly determines who can access new economic opportunities. Workers with strong digital skills can participate in remote employment, online education and global digital markets. Those without such skills often remain limited to traditional economic activities.

The spread of smartphones and internet connectivity has brought millions of Nigerians online. The next challenge is ensuring that more people have the skills needed to use technology meaningfully.

Cynthia Nwanonyiri