The Federal Government has announced plans to remove data charges for millions of Nigerian students accessing approved educational platforms as part of efforts to make digital learning more accessible.

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Thursday during the launch of the Initiative for Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content in Nigeria.

According to Alausa, the programme is designed to ensure that the cost of internet access does not stop students from benefiting from quality educational resources.

He said the initiative, introduced under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, would address one of the major barriers to digital education in the country.

“This initiative goes beyond connectivity. It is about putting learning within reach of children who may otherwise be unable to afford the data required to access it,” the minister said.

Alausa explained that poverty, geographical location and limited access to traditional educational facilities should not prevent Nigerian children from getting learning opportunities.

He noted that a smartphone, tablet or computer could serve as both a classroom and a library when the cost of accessing educational materials is removed.

The initiative comes amid persistent challenges in Nigeria’s education sector, including a significant digital divide that has left many children and young people without reliable access to learning.

UNICEF has previously reported that millions of Nigerian children are out of school, while poor internet connectivity, inadequate electricity and limited digital skills continue to affect access to online education, particularly in rural communities.

The Federal Government said the zero-rated access initiative is expected to help bridge the digital gap and make educational content more accessible to students across the country.

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