Technology has seeped into virtually every aspect of modern Nigerian life — from the hawker sending WhatsApp messages to customers, to the farmer checking weather updates on a basic smartphone, to the market woman using a POS machine to process payments. Yet, a paradox persists: the average Nigerian is surrounded by technology but often lacks a fundamental understanding of what it is, how it works, and its broader implications.
Tech is now deeply ingrained in every aspect of our modern existence; however, every day I still get questions like this tech thing, what is it about? how does it work? These are people who are active on Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, yet they do not know that these are tech platforms, that the whole idea of social media is powered by technology! This leads me to wonder why people who are heavy consumers of a product, who can use their mobile app to make transfers and pay bills, still do not understand the basic concept of tech.
This disconnect is not unique to Nigeria, but it is exacerbated in Nigeria by a combination of educational gaps, infrastructural constraints, socio-economic realities, and cultural attitudes toward science and innovation. Here’s a breakdown of why this gap exists and what it means for the country’s future.
Education: The Foundation is Weak
The Nigerian education system has long struggled with underfunding, outdated curricula, and a lack of focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Most public schools still teach computer science as a theoretical subject, often without computer access. Students memorise the definition of “hardware” and “software” without ever interacting with either in a meaningful way.
As a result, many Nigerians grow up with limited exposure to how technology works behind the scenes. They may know how to use a smartphone or a banking app, but not understand the principles of data, algorithms, or coding that power those tools.
Digital Literacy vs. Tech Fluency
There’s a significant difference between digital literacy — the ability to use digital devices — and technological fluency, which involves understanding the concepts behind those devices. A user can navigate Facebook or TikTok with ease, yet have no idea what the “cloud” is, or why cybersecurity matters.
Many Nigerians have embraced the front end of technology without the back-end knowledge. It’s not unusual for someone to use Google Maps daily but not understand how GPS or data transmission works. This isn’t ignorance; it’s a reflection of a global digital divide where users are consumers, not creators.
Technology as a Tool, Not a Culture
In Nigeria, tech is often seen as a utility — something that solves a problem or makes life easier — but not as a culture or ecosystem that demands deeper engagement. The average Nigerian uses technology because it serves an immediate need: money transfer, communication, and entertainment. There’s little incentive or access to go further.
In more tech-driven societies, innovation is part of everyday conversation. People follow developments in AI, robotics, or blockchain. In contrast, many Nigerians don’t see how these things are relevant to their lives, even though they already interact with them indirectly through platforms like YouTube, ride-hailing apps, or even government data systems.
Language and Accessibility Barriers
A lot of tech content is produced in English and framed with Western examples. This alienates many Nigerians who either struggle with formal English or don’t relate to contexts like “smart homes” and “wearables.” There’s a lack of localised tech education and content, in local languages, with culturally relevant analogies, that could make technology more relatable.
Economic Survival Takes Precedence
For many Nigerians, daily life is a hustle. With pressing issues like inflation, unemployment, and insecurity, abstract tech concepts feel like a luxury. If someone is more concerned about getting fuel or paying rent, understanding how the internet works is not a priority.
This survival mentality means tech is often viewed with a “just show me how to use it” mindset. There is little patience for deep dives when the goal is quick efficiency.
Cultural Attitudes and the “Tech is for the Rich” Myth
Technology is still sometimes viewed as elite — something for the rich, the educated, or “abroad people.” This mindset discourages exploration. When tech is associated with status rather than utility or opportunity, it creates a psychological barrier to entry. It becomes something people feel they are not smart enough or rich enough to engage with beyond surface use.
So, What’s the Way Forward?
- Reform Education: Nigerian schools must start teaching tech not as a subject, but as a language of the modern world. Hands-on coding, robotics, and critical digital thinking should be prioritised.
- Community Learning Hubs: NGOs, churches, and local governments can create informal learning spaces where everyday Nigerians can explore technology in a practical, inclusive way.
- Local Language Content: Tech education must speak in the language and context of the people. Content creators and edtech companies have a huge opportunity here.
- Public Campaigns: Just as campaigns have raised awareness for health and voting, similar efforts can demystify tech. Imagine radio jingles explaining the cloud or billboards simplifying data privacy.
The average Nigerian is not uninterested in tech — they’re underexposed, underserved, and often uninspired by how it’s currently presented. As the country continues to grow as a digital economy, bridging the gap between tech usage and tech understanding is not just an educational necessity; it’s a national priority.
