The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has restated its commitment to the promotion of literacy and digital education to ensure a holistic development of the Niger Delta region.

Speaking during a seminar to mark the 2025 International Literacy Day at the Justice Mary Odili Judicial Institute, Port Harcourt, the NDDC Director in the Directorate of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Awele Chukwudifo, said the purpose was to raise awareness among youths in the Niger Delta region on the critical role of literacy in personal and societal development.

The event followed a sensitisation walk held on September 8, 2025, the official International Literacy Day, to create awareness about the importance of literacy in today’s global world.

Chukwudifo remarked: “Literacy enhances self-esteem, drives economic development, and fosters national growth, The NDDC believes in developing our youth not just in reading and writing, but also in acquiring relevant skills. Literacy is a human right, and everyone deserves access not just to basic education, but to the digital tools and knowledge that define the modern world.”

She further stated that the seminar aimed to broaden students’ perspectives and teach them how to leverage technology for self-development in today’s digital era.

In a keynote lecture entitled: “Leveraging Emerging Technologies to Drive Innovation, Creativity, and Productivity,” Dr. Augustin Imikan underscored the transformative power of digital tools in today’s workforce.

Imikan acknowledged challenges such as data privacy, security risks, and the misuse of information and urged organisations to adapt by fostering a culture of innovation, embracing AI and machine learning, investing in digital infrastructure, and aligning technology adoption with national development goals.

“To stay relevant, we must embrace change. Emerging technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for learning, growth, and global competitiveness,” he said.

In his own paper entitled: “Promoting Literacy in a Digital Era,” a lecturer at the Rivers State University, Dr. Jinyemiema Tamuno, described literacy as the bedrock of national development.

He cautioned that nations that fail to prioritise literacy risked stagnation and inequality, stating: “Education is a fundamental human right. It opens the door to all other rights and freedoms, It empowers individuals with the knowledge, skills, values, and behaviour needed to foster peace, respect, and equality.”

Tamuno cited UNESCO’s 2024 report, indicating that over 739 million youths and adults globally still lack basic literacy skills. He noted that five NDDC states rank among Nigeria’s top ten most literate, with Imo State leading the list. However, he pointed to a concerning 28 per cent average school dropout rate in the region, calling on NDDC to intensify its literacy campaigns.

•PHOTO: The NDDC, Director, Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Angela Awele (2nd left); welcomes a staff of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board, Mrs. Ngozi Ikegwuru (left) during the International Literacy Day, in Port Harcourt. From the right, are the Deputy Director, Corporate Affairs, Dr Tony Omah and Prof. Eketu Continue