By Adeyinka Adeniran
Nigeria’s Digital Awareness Programme (DAP) has emerged as the winner of the prestigious 2025 World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize in Category C3: Access to Information and Knowledge.
The programme, which is implemented by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), received the highest number of votes in its category, earning it the top honour.
The DAP is a flagship programme that equips secondary schools across Nigeria with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources and provides internet connectivity to support teaching, learning, and research.
Since its inception in 2006, the programme has benefited over 300 schools across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The programme’s objective is to promote digital literacy and provide access to information and knowledge for students and teachers in Nigeria.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, received the award during the WSIS Prizes Winners 2025 Ceremony held in Geneva, Switzerland. Dr. Maida thanked the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and WSIS for recognizing Nigeria’s efforts in promoting inclusive digital access.
He noted that the recognition would serve as further motivation for the Commission, affirming that investing in digital inclusion is investing in national development.
The WSIS Prizes competition recognizes and promotes projects that effectively leverage ICTs to advance sustainable development. The DAP’s win is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to digital literacy and inclusive access to information.
The programme’s impact on education and digital skills development in Nigeria is significant, and it has set a benchmark for other countries to follow.
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Maida said, “This recognition is more than a celebration of past efforts—it is an encouragement to press forward. It affirms that investing in digital inclusion is investing in national development, and that Nigeria’s work is being seen and valued on the global stage.”
The NCC’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion and access to information is evident in its efforts to bridge the digital divide in Nigeria.
The DAP’s success is a result of the NCC’s efforts to promote digital literacy and provide access to information and knowledge for all Nigerians. The programme has not only improved digital skills but also enhanced the quality of education in Nigeria.
The NCC’s initiative has set a precedent for other organizations to follow, and it is expected to have a ripple effect on the country’s development.
Four other Nigerian projects were also celebrated for their nomination in the Champions Category of Projects, including Women Techsters, Advanced Digital Empowerment Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADEPTI), Telecom-Based Research Grant Initiative, and Digital Learning Initiative.
Although they were not among the top-voted entries, they were acknowledged for their significant merit and impact.
The recognition of these projects is a testament to the country’s commitment to digital development and innovation.
