Digital investments and inclusion in conflict-affected regions can deliver lasting impacts by empowering communities, strengthening local institutions, and supporting inclusive economic growth.
The European Union mission in Nigeria made the observation at a gathering of stakeholders, including civil society organisations and state government officials, to reflect on ways to advance inclusive digital transformation and economic opportunities for women, hard-to-reach youths, and persons with disabilities in Borno and Yobe States.
Speaking at the event in Maiduguri, the Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Massimo De Luca, underscored the strategic focus on inclusive, people-centred digital development in conflict zones.
He emphasised the need to reduce the digital gender divide and exclusion among women, youth, and persons with disabilities while strengthening community-level capacity in fragile contexts.
“Digital inclusion is not a luxury; it is a necessity for resilience, innovation, and meaningful participation in today’s economy. For marginalised communities in conflict-affected regions, access to digital skills is essential to stability, opportunity, and long-term recovery.
“Through the Global Gateway strategy, we back practical, people-centred digital transformation that responds to local realities and leaves no one behind.
“Looking ahead, the European Union wants initiatives like this to translate into real economic value. Our focus is on ensuring that skills, infrastructure, and innovation lead to viable enterprises, job creation, and durable economic resilience within local communities,” De Luca noted.
Providing an overview, Godwin Dominic, the programme officer at ZOA International, the implementing partner, said the initiative delivered measurable results across target communities.
The Executive Secretary of the Borno Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (BICTDA), Mohammed Kabir Wanori, who represented the Borno government, commended the EU for complementing the state’s development priorities, strategies, and policies, and for strengthening opportunities for women and youth.
