Information Technology has become paramount to a rapidly changing global environment, and challenges us to devise bold and courageous initiatives to address a host of vital socio-economic issues. A developing nation like Nigeria, which aspires to participate effectively and become a key player in the emerging Information Age, needs to have in place, a highly efficient Information Tech driven by a vibrant workforce.

The importance of Information Technology (IT) has tremendously increased in the strategic and operational aspects of the economy and the society. Experts from governments, academia, associations, trade unions and industry have therefore emphasised the importance of e-skills and professionalism for innovative and business value creation.

The level of digital literacy is alarmingly low among Nigerian students.  They do not bother to acquire e-skill beyond casual consumer level. The low level of skill acquisition in information and communication technology in the country‘s educational system and its resultant negative impact on job creation is a source of worry for the government.  

The need of developing Nigeria‘s technical brain power in Information Technology (IT) that would bridge the knowledge-gap between the existing Universities, Polytechnics and the global IT industry is mounting as the knowledge society continues to create a tremendous need for educated, competent and creative professionals. 

Development of e-skill in the Nigerian workforce will lead to accelerated economic growth.  E-business will empower the vast majority of unemployed and small businesses. To address the low level of e-business awareness, there is therefore a need to encourage the massive development and growth of education and training in e-business and Information Technology (IT).