The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with U.S.-based corporation, Digital Learning Network (DLN), to roll out a landmark National Digital Education Transformation Project aimed at boosting access and improving the quality of basic education in Nigeria.

The MoU, signed yesterday at UBEC headquarters in Abuja, will see the distribution of 47 million laptops and tablets to students and teachers across pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary schools nationwide.

UBEC Executive Secretary, Aisha Garba, described the initiative as a game-changer for the Nigerian education system. “This project represents one of the most significant educational technology initiatives globally. It will transform learning in our pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary schools, particularly in remote and underserved communities,” she said.

According to Garba, the devices will come pre-loaded with digital textbooks and interactive learning resources aligned with the national curriculum developed by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). “We are ensuring that every child, regardless of location, has equitable access to world-class digital learning tools, infrastructure, and training,” she added.

The project will be fully funded through private investments mobilized by DLN in collaboration with Deloitte Financial Advisory, United Bank of Africa (UBA) Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, and the National Credit Guarantee Company. These funds will be sourced from development finance institutions, global technology partners, and institutional investors.

Garba further highlighted the robust digital infrastructure embedded in the project. “We will deploy a hybrid internet system that combines 5G, partnerships with local telecom operators, and SpaceX’s Starlink satellite technology. This will guarantee minimum broadband speeds of 50 Mbps for schools, even in the most rural and remote areas,” she explained.

In addition to devices and connectivity, UBEC plans to roll out a nationwide digital pedagogy programme in partnership with the National Teachers’ Institute. “This training will equip educators, administrators, and support staff with the skills they need to maximize the benefits of this digital revolution, while ensuring alignment with national teaching standards,” Garba said.

The UBEC–DLN partnership signals a bold step toward closing Nigeria’s digital divide in education, while positioning the nation as a front-runner in global EdTech innovation