By Emmanuel Uduak-Obong Esther
The Federal Government has opened applications for its C.L.I.C.K.D. laptop credit scheme, giving students and other Nigerians enrolled in approved digital skills programmes the opportunity to acquire subsidised laptops through flexible instalment payments.
The scheme, which stands for Credit for Laptops, Internet, Connectivity and Knowledge Digital Devices, was launched by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to improve access to digital devices for learners.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, said bridging Nigeria's digital divide requires equipping citizens with both digital skills and the tools needed to apply them. CREDICORP Managing Director, Uzoma Nwagba said the initiative would remove the burden of high upfront device costs and create more opportunities for young Nigerians in the digital economy.
The pilot phase will provide 1,000 locally assembled laptops to fellows of the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme. So far, 77 beneficiaries in Abuja have received their devices, while distribution to other states is expected to continue in phases.
Interested and eligible applicants can apply through the CREDICORP portal by selecting "I'm Interested" and providing details such as their location, employment status, preferred device and reason for applying. Applicants must also consent to eligibility verification.
Although the application portal accepts registrations from participants in other digital training programmes, including Learn2Earn, ALX Africa and AltSchool Africa, CREDICORP has confirmed that only 3MTT fellows are eligible for the current pilot phase.
The corporation is yet to announce key loan details, including interest rates, repayment period and any required down payment.
The laptops are being assembled locally by NASENI and Imose Technologies, while Fidelity Bank is handling loan administration for the scheme.
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