In a bid to tackle rising digital illiteracy and financial exclusion among young Nigerians, students of the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) have launched a grassroots initiative aimed at bridging critical knowledge gaps.
As part of their Class of 2025 capstone project, the students rolled out Positive STEPS Nigeria, a three-day seminar that trained young people in Lagos on practical digital tools and essential financial literacy.
The project was conceived as a direct response to the disconnect between young Nigerians and the fast-evolving digital economy. Despite widespread smartphone ownership and internet access, many youths remain unaware of how to leverage digital platforms for education, entrepreneurship, and financial independence. The driving force behind the initiative is a clear understanding of the evolving needs of today’s youth.
A key member of the SPPG Capstone Project team, Dr. Godsgift Obi, in a press statement, said, “We live in a digital world, yet many lack the basic skills to navigate it effectively. This seminar is about unlocking opportunities that are often unseen due to a lack of digital awareness and providing the financial know-how for a more secure future.”
The program’s innovative “train-the-trainer” model is designed for scalability and lasting impact. By training an initial cohort of ten individuals who will then each mentor and train ten more, the project aims to create a groundswell of knowledge, reaching over a hundred young people in its first phase.
The team lead for the group, Lovelyn Okafor, explained that the initiative is deeply rooted in SPPG’s core principles. “Our program at SPPG emphasizes character, competence, and capacity. Having experienced this transformative learning ourselves, we are driven to extend these vital skills to young people aged 18 to 35, empowering them to become active and informed citizens,” she added.
The seminar already resonates strongly with participants. Oluwatobiloba Victor Odunola, one of the enthusiastic attendees, shared his transformative experience. “Honestly, the training has been eye-opening. I use my smartphone every day, but I didn’t realize its full potential for my business and for learning new skills. I’m excited to not only receive this knowledge, but also to share it with others in my community.”
A commendable aspect of the project is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity. The presence of sign language interpreters and proactive planning for participants with physical disabilities underscored the team’s dedication to reaching all segments of the youth population. Dr. Folashade Coker, an SPPG student with a legal and tax background, emphasized this point. “Witnessing the active engagement of Persons with disabilities (PWDs) has been incredibly rewarding. Their eagerness to learn and contribute highlighted their immense potential, and we are proud to create a platform where everyone feels welcome and empowered,” she noted.
The success of the initiative is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the SPPG students and the support they garnered. Funding for the project was secured through a combination of team fundraising efforts and external contributions, demonstrating a shared belief in the importance of youth empowerment. The students themselves conceived and structured the entire training program, showcasing their leadership and initiative.
The participants are already envisioning how they will leverage their newfound knowledge. Oladeji Dorcas Oluwasukunmi, who discovered the training online, expressed her enthusiasm. “This training has been truly impactful! I have already gained valuable insights into using technology to grow my business and connect with more people. My goal is to not only apply this knowledge myself but also to teach others in my community.”
The SPPG students’ capstone project is more than just a seminar; it’s an investment in the future of Lagos and Nigeria at large. By equipping young people with essential digital and financial literacy skills, they are fostering a generation that is more informed, more empowered, and better prepared to contribute to the socio-economic growth of Nigeria. The ripple effect of their “Positive STEPS Nigeria” promises to be felt for years to come.
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