The Federal Government on Tuesday launched the Credit for Laptops, Internet, Connectivity and Knowledge Digital Devices (C.L.I.C.K.D) Programme, a new initiative designed to provide Nigerians with affordable access to laptops, internet-enabled devices and other digital tools through structured consumer credit.

The programme, which is being implemented by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, is part of efforts to deepen digital inclusion and expand access to technology across the country.

According to the government, the initiative aligns with its broader objective of democratizing access to consumer credit, creating economic opportunities and improving the quality of life of Nigerians through responsible borrowing.

Launched in partnership with the Federal Government’s Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, it is designed to provide eligible Nigerians with affordable financing for laptops, internet-enabled devices and other essential digital tools. Starting with locally assembled laptops and prioritising local manufacturing as it expands, the scheme aims to boost digital inclusion, support skills development, enhance productivity and enable more citizens to actively participate in the digital economy.

In his keynote address at the event on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, underscored the necessity of a sound credit system for societal progress, highlighting the Federal Government’s efforts in providing Nigeria with credit facilities.

He commended President Bola Tinubu and the Managing Director of CREDICORP for spearheading the initiative, describing it as a transformative programme that would stimulate job creation, expand economic opportunities and contribute significantly to national output, in line with the administration’s vision of growing Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy.

He noted that the administration’s commitment to building a robust credit ecosystem is laying the foundation for economic growth, entrepreneurship and digital transformation.

According to him, access to affordable credit empowers individuals and businesses to acquire productive assets, improve their livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to national development.

He added that initiatives such as C.L.I.C.K.D. demonstrate the government’s resolve to leverage technology and innovative financing models to bridge the digital divide and ensure that more Nigerians can participate fully in the digital economy.

“That’s what President Bola Tinubu is doing. When he said he wants to create a $1 trillion economy, and there’s no other way to create that economy but what we’re here to launch today”, he said.

A major highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of laptop devices to some beneficiaries by the Minister.

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CREDICORP, Uzoma Nwagba, announced that the corporation would provide 1,000 locally assembled laptops to eligible fellows under the programme across the country as part of efforts to deepen digital inclusion and enhance access to technology for young Nigerians.

Nwagba explained that the initiative is designed to equip beneficiaries with the tools needed to participate effectively in the digital economy, improve their learning experience and strengthen their capacity to acquire in-demand technology skills. He noted that the laptops, assembled locally, also align with the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting indigenous manufacturing and creating jobs within the country’s technology ecosystem.

According to him, the rollout began in Abuja, where 77 beneficiaries received their devices, while the remaining laptops would be distributed to qualified fellows in other states in phases. He said the intervention would not only bridge the digital divide but also empower thousands of young Nigerians to access training opportunities, remote work prospects and other technology-driven economic activities.

Nwagba added that the initiative forms part of broader efforts by CREDICORP and its partners to expand access to affordable digital devices and ensure that more Nigerians are equipped with the tools required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.