Niger Trains 2000 Traders On Digital Literacy

In view of the need to explore the opportunities in the digital economy, the Niger State government has begun the training of no fewer than 2000 market men, women and youths on digital literacy.

The commissioner for Communication Technology and Digital Economy , Alhaji Sulaiman, who spoke at the flag-off of the training yesterday in Minna, said the government will keep the participants’ data for intervention in its NG: cares programme for self-reliance.

Isah said the programme was organised to bring them at par with modern ways of transacting business, adding that the era of travelling several kilometres to buy goods for sale was over, urging the participants to avail themselves of the opportunities provided by the training to open new horizons in the way they transact their business.

He said digitalisation will expand and boost trade and reduce the drudgery of road travel.

Isah also noted that adopting technology in their businesses will protect them from bandits and armed robbers adding that “this training is to expand your businesses and markets”.

The commissioner disclosed that more follow up trainings will be organised for the participants to further boost their horizons.

A representative of the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises, Alhaji Ahmed Gwada, while addressing the participants, announced that their details will be put in the NG:Cares Database to enable them to benefit from the next batch of the government’s grant for women and traders.

According to Alhaji Ahmed Gwada government had already released N50,000 each to 10,000 people under the programme adding that the next phase of the grant which is “free” will be for 20,000 participants.

“The money is free the portal will soon be opened, if you don’t know how to access the portal ask your children to help you, don’t give money to anyone,” Gwada declared.

The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Communication and Digital Technology, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Musa urged the participants to continue to give their support and cooperation to the administration of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for the success of the government.