By MICHAEL AJAYI

The Federal Government has inaugurated a consumer credit scheme to provide Nigerians with affordable laptops, internet-enabled devices, and digital tools.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, unveiled the initiative on Tuesday in Abuja.

Tijani said the scheme, tagged, “Credit for Laptops, Internet, Connectivity and Knowledge Digital Devices (CLICKED)”, was designed to deepen digital inclusion and expand access to technology across the country.

He commended President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) for spearheading the transformative programme.

According to him, building a robust credit ecosystem is laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation.

“Access to affordable credit empowers individuals and businesses to acquire productive assets, improve their livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“Initiatives such as CLICKED demonstrate the government’s resolve to leverage technology and innovative financing models to bridge the digital divide.

“When President Bola Tinubu said he wants to create a one trillion-dollar economy, there is no other way to create that economy than what we are launching today,” he said.

Earlier, the Managing Director of CREDICORP, Mr Uzoma Nwagba, announced that 1,000 locally assembled laptops would be provided to eligible fellows across the country under the initial phase.

Nwagba said the rollout began in Abuja with 77 beneficiaries, while the remaining devices would be distributed to qualified fellows in other states in phases.

He explained that prioritising locally assembled devices aligned with the government’s commitment to supporting indigenous manufacturing and creating jobs within the technology ecosystem.

“This intervention will not only bridge the digital divide, but also empower thousands of young Nigerians to access training opportunities, remote work prospects, and technology-driven economic activities,” Nwagba said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the C.L.I.C.K.D initiative is implemented by CREDICORP in partnership with the government’s Three Million Technical Talent programme.

A major highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of laptop devices to selected beneficiaries by the minister. (NAN)

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