Nigeria’s digital economy is experiencing unprecedented momentum, with the ICT sector serving as a key engine of economic growth, innovation, and workforce development. Its sustained contribution to GDP underscores the sector’s strategic importance in supporting Nigeria’s long-term economic diversification and digital ambitions.
To sustain this growth, Nigeria must continue investing in digital talent. A skilled, future-ready workforce is fundamental to achieving the objectives of its National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.
Cisco Networking Academy (NetAcad) is helping turn this vision into reality.
As one of Nigeria’s longest-standing digital skills initiatives, NetAcad provides industry-aligned training that equips learners with the technology expertise employers value most. Through collaboration with government agencies, educational institutions, and industry partners, Cisco empowers thousands of Nigerians every year with globally recognized skills, helping expand career opportunities, strengthen the digital economy, and contribute to sustainable economic development.
Nigeria’s digital and economic landscape
Nigeria stands at a pivotal juncture, anchored by a vibrant population of over 220 million, with a median age of approximately 18 years. With more than 70 percent of the population under the age of 30, the country possesses a demographic dividend that is unparalleled in its potential to fuel the global digital economy.
Currently, the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector serves as a primary engine of growth, contributing roughly 18 percent to the nation’s GDP. Despite this momentum, the path to universal digital inclusion remains obstructed by significant hurdles.
Research indicates that while the demand for tech-enabled roles is skyrocketing, there remains a profound skills mismatch; the World Bank and other development agencies estimate that Nigeria will need to fill millions of digital-centric roles by 2030 to remain competitive in the global market. Furthermore, infrastructure disparities and limited access to high-quality, standardized digital training continue to create barriers for rural and underserved urban communities.
To bridge this divide, Cisco Networking Academy has reached a monumental milestone: training over 1 million students in Nigeria. This achievement represents more than just a number; it is a critical intervention in equipping the next generation with the technical proficiency required to drive innovation, enhance social mobility, and solidify Nigeria’s position as a premier digital hub in Africa.
One million learners and counting: Stories of transformation
Reaching 1 million learners in Nigeria is more than a number.
It symbolizes a generation empowered with skills to access new career pathways. Success stories abound—from students earning globally recognized certifications like CCNA to individuals launching tech startups and contributing to local innovation ecosystems.
Initiatives such as the IT Bridge Academy, which supports persons with disabilities through tailored digital skills training, exemplify the Academy’s commitment to inclusion and equity. Born from a strategic partnership between Sightsavers, Cisco Networking Academy, and the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), the academy addresses the stark digital divide in Nigeria.
By providing specialized, accessible training, the program ensures that physical or sensory impairments do not limit a person’s potential to thrive in the global tech landscape. The curriculum is built around the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification, adapted specifically to ensure accessibility for students with various disabilities.
Beyond technical networking skills, the academy integrates modules in digital marketing, data analysis, and product management. This holistic approach is complemented by soft-skills training, including interview preparation and mentorship, which builds the confidence necessary for students to navigate the professional world.
A gathering of visionaries and changemakers
The remarkable success of the Cisco Networking Academy in Nigeria is a testament to a robust partner ecosystem, uniting private and public organizations in a shared mission.
Central to this achievement is the unwavering support of government bodies like the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). As the primary facilitator and regulatory partner, NITDA’s collaboration with Cisco serves as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, which aims to achieve an ambitious 95 percent digital literacy rate by 2030.
On July 21, 2026, a milestone celebration in Abuja brought this ecosystem to life, uniting government leaders, educators, and students.
During the event, Abdelaziz Saidu, General Manager of Cisco West Africa, reaffirmed Cisco’s dedication to Nigeria’s digital future, emphasizing how the Networking Academy empowers local communities. Attendees also gained insights from Brian Tippens, Senior Vice President and Chief Social Impact & Sustainability Officer, who discussed the critical need to prepare Africa’s workforce for emerging AI technologies. The guest of honor provided an inspiring perspective on how the intersection of technology and education can fundamentally transform Nigeria’s development landscape.
The event also served as a platform to express gratitude to the pillars of the program’s success.
In recognition of their enduring support, celebratory plaques were awarded to two key Nigerian partners—the University of Jos and NITDA—as well as to former student Hamsa Isah Baffa. A special highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of Imoh Akpan, who has led the Cisco Networking Academy in Nigeria with passion and resilience since 2013. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating the program’s growth and ensuring its lasting impact across the region.
Continuing the journey together
As we celebrate this milestone, we renew our commitment to advancing digital skills and opportunities for even more Nigerians. Together with our partners and learners, Cisco Networking Academy will continue to bridge divides, foster innovation, and prepare Nigeria’s workforce to lead in the digital age.
