First Lady Flags Off Distribution of 45,000 U-Lesson Tablets to Niger Delta Schools, Emphasizes Digital Literacy

First Lady Flags Off Distribution of 45,000 U-Lesson Tablets to Niger Delta Schools, Emphasizes Digital Literacy

Abuja, Nigeria – November 9, 2024*

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the distribution of 45,000 U-Lesson tablets to primary and secondary schools in the Niger Delta, reaffirming her commitment to bridging the digital divide in education. Speaking at the event, she underscored the importance of equipping Nigerian students with digital tools to align with Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to provide inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all.

This initiative, a collaboration between the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), seeks to introduce students to a transformative digital learning experience that can empower them to learn independently, improve academic performance, and engage in creative problem-solving.

“These devices are not merely recreational gadgets,” the First Lady remarked, “they are essential learning tools that support academic excellence and creativity.” She highlighted that the U-Lesson tablets, developed specifically for the Nigerian curriculum, feature an offline video library, parental controls, and an 18-hour battery life—making them accessible and reliable educational resources even in remote areas.

As she addressed the attendees, Senator Tinubu stated that equipping schools with digital devices marks a crucial step toward achieving the nation’s educational and digital policy goals. “With these tools, we are supplementing traditional teaching and preparing students for a digital future. Nigeria cannot afford to lag in the global digital landscape,” she emphasized.

NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, expressed the significance of the project, emphasizing that digital technology offers equal access to quality education even as physical infrastructure in schools may require upgrades. “This is just the beginning. We are committed to providing additional tablets to students in need,” he said, ensuring that the NDDC is working with state education ministries to distribute tablets to students in functional schools.

The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Digital Policy, which envisions a digitally skilled generation. “Our children need these skills to compete globally,” Dr. Ogbuku added, noting that early exposure to digital tools will help Nigerian students excel in international academic environments.

Also speaking at the event, Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, commended the partnership, stressing that the collaboration between RHI, NDDC, and state governments supports sustainable development goals in education, health, and empowerment across communities.

In a symbolic presentation, tablets were handed to students from the nine Niger Delta states, witnessed by dignitaries including the Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, and wives of various state governors.

The First Lady encouraged students, parents, and teachers to make the most of the opportunity. “To the students, I urge you to dream big and work hard. Education is the key to unlocking your future,” she concluded.

Signed:

Busola Kukoyi  

SSA Media to the First Lady of Nigeria