By George Ozalla
Wives of members of the House of Representatives have concluded an intensive digital literacy and leadership training at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, with senior officials emphasising the need to equip women with relevant technological skills to strengthen governance, economic participation and community leadership.
The capacity-building programme, organised by the National Information Technology Development Agency in collaboration with the House of Representatives Spouses Association, focused on digital communication, cybersecurity awareness, financial literacy, digital entrepreneurship and emotional resilience.
The initiative drew spouses of lawmakers from across the federation and formed part of broader efforts to deepen digital inclusion and prepare key stakeholders for participation in Nigeria’s evolving digital economy.
In her remarks, the wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, said the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of lawmakers’ spouses to navigate the demands of modern public life shaped increasingly by technology. She noted that digital platforms now influence governance, public perception, business, education and family life, making digital competence a necessary skill rather than an optional one.
She observed that spouses of lawmakers often serve as informal community leaders and role models, adding that their understanding of online safety, privacy protection and responsible engagement would help them guide families and communities more effectively.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, who was in attendance, reaffirmed the commitment of the House leadership to initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and inclusive development. His presence signified institutional support for strengthening the capacity of lawmakers’ families as partners in democratic governance and national progress.
Kalu maintained that empowering women with digital knowledge contributes to national growth, especially at a time when technology drives innovation, economic competitiveness and civic participation.
Also present was the Chief of Staff to the President and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, who described digital literacy as an essential requirement in contemporary society. He said the rapid transformation of communication and commerce through technology demands that leaders and their families remain informed and adaptable.
Facilitators at the workshop delivered practical sessions on cybersecurity awareness, data protection, digital tools for communication, financial management applications and opportunities within the digital economy. Participants were encouraged to extend the knowledge gained to women and young people in their constituencies to promote wider digital awareness.
