The Federal Government has launched the Credit for Laptops, Internet, Connectivity and Knowledge Digital Devices (C.L.I.C.K.D) Programme, an initiative spearheaded by CREDICORP and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. The scheme provides affordable soft loans for tech devices, addressing a critical barrier for newly trained tech talents who cannot afford expensive laptops upfront.
What Problems Does CREDITCORP Solve?
Following the launch on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in Abuja, Enitan Bello, a tech ecosystem commentator, took to social media to highlight the practical problems this CREDITCORP programme solves for everyday Nigerians. According to Bello, the most significant barrier for young tech graduates in Nigeria is not the willingness to learn but the financial constraint of starting a career.
Bello outlined three key problems the scheme addresses: the high upfront cost of purchasing a laptop (N400,000+) for remote work or freelancing; the financial barrier of needing the entire payment upfront rather than in installments; and the heavy reliance on imported devices instead of building a local hardware manufacturing base and creating domestic jobs.
How the Scheme Works
Taking to his X page, @enitandev, Bello explained: "The actual problem it's solving is this. A 3MTT fellow finishes tech training, has real skills now, but can't afford the N400,000+ laptop needed to actually use them for remote work or freelancing. This scheme lets them take the device now and pay in instalments instead of needing the full amount upfront."
He added: "The laptops are specifically locally assembled, not imported. That's a deliberate choice to build Nigeria's own hardware manufacturing base and create jobs in that value chain, not just distribute devices."
Rollout and Application Steps
Bello noted that 1,000 units have been earmarked for eligible 3MTT fellows nationwide, with rollout already started in Abuja. At the launch itself, 77 people received laptops, with the rest phasing out to other states.
Nigerians can apply for the CREDITCORP scheme in three steps: first, visit the official C.L.I.C.K.D portal; second, complete the application form; and third, confirm, consent, and submit. The initiative aims to expand access to digital devices for learning, remote work, freelancing, business growth, and content creation.
Impact and Significance
The CREDITCORP scheme directly tackles the financial barriers preventing many Nigerians from leveraging their tech skills. By providing instalment payment options and promoting locally assembled devices, the programme supports both individual career growth and national economic development. The focus on local assembly is expected to stimulate the hardware manufacturing sector and create jobs, reducing dependence on imports.
