The Federal Government has officially launched a major national initiative aimed at making essential digital tools accessible to the Nigerian workforce. Through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), the government is rolling out a digital device credit programme designed to break down cost barriers for smartphones, laptops, and other critical devices.
Scaling Up from a Successful Pilot
This national rollout comes on the heels of a successful pilot phase. The pilot enabled more than 1,000 Nigerians to obtain smartphones through affordable credit arrangements. Building on this proof of concept, CREDICORP is now significantly expanding the programme's reach.
In this new phase, the initiative is set to cover over 15,000 working Nigerians. Eligible individuals will gain access to credit specifically for purchasing digital devices that are essential in today's economy. To deliver this scaled initiative, CREDICORP is collaborating with E-Finance Company, one of its Participating Financial Institutions, and leveraging technology support from Credlock.
Aligning with a Broader Digital Agenda
CREDICORP's Managing Director, Uzoma Nwagba, framed the launch as a logical next step in the corporation's mission. He explained that the programme directly supports the government's wider goals of expanding digital inclusion, enhancing national productivity, and empowering a modern workforce.
Nwagba strongly asserted that access to fundamental digital tools should not be a luxury for Nigerian workers. The programme is intentionally designed to dismantle the long-standing financial obstacles that prevent many from owning devices crucial for professional work, continuous learning, and personal innovation.
"From mobility to renewable energy, we have witnessed the profound impact that access to credit can have on people’s daily lives," Nwagba stated. "Nigerians are ambitious and hardworking; they simply need fair pathways to acquire the tools that move them forward. Digital devices now sit at the centre of learning, earning, and productivity, and expanding access to them is a critical step in building a more digitally ready nation."
Devices as Bridges to Opportunity
Echoing this vision, Dayo Fabayo, the CEO of technology partner Credlock, emphasised the transformative potential of everyday devices. He highlighted how a simple smartphone can become a powerful engine for progress.
"Every smartphone represents potential to learn, to work, to access opportunity, and to live with dignity," Fabayo said. "At Credlock, we believe the device in someone’s hand can be the bridge to their financial future. Working with CREDICORP and E-Finance allows us to scale that vision to millions of Nigerians."
The launch of this programme marks a concrete step by the Federal Government to address the digital divide. By providing structured credit for devices, it aims to equip thousands of Nigerian workers with the basic tools needed to participate fully in the digital economy, potentially boosting individual productivity and the nation's overall economic competitiveness.
