FG Launches New Loan Scheme For Nigerians To Own Laptops, Smartphones And More

According to Ireporter Online, the programme, known as the Credit for Laptops, Internet, Connectivity and Knowledge Digital Devices Programme (C.L.I.C.K.D.), allows qualified Nigerians to obtain technology devices without making full payment upfront, with repayment spread over an agreed period.

The initiative is being coordinated by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.

The scheme was officially unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, alongside the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CREDICORP, Uzoma Nwagba.

The Federal Government said the programme was designed to improve access to digital tools for Nigerians who require devices for education, employment, entrepreneurship, remote work and other technology-driven activities.

Under the arrangement, beneficiaries can select their preferred digital device and repay the cost gradually rather than bearing the entire financial burden at once.

The first phase of the initiative will focus on locally assembled laptops as part of efforts to encourage domestic production and strengthen Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.

Applicants will be able to indicate whether they require a laptop, smartphone, tablet or another digital device, while also explaining the purpose for which the device is needed.

Reasons listed on the application platform include education, professional training, remote employment, freelancing, business expansion, software development, school activities and content creation.

To apply, interested Nigerians are required to visit the official C.L.I.C.K.D. application platform at credicorp.ng/clickd and select the “I’m Interested” option to begin the registration process.

Applicants will provide details such as their state of residence, employment status, income range, participation in digital skills programmes, preferred device type and the reason for requesting the device.

The application form also asks candidates how they learned about the initiative, with options including social media, schools, employers, family members, Google searches and digital talent programmes.

Before completing the process, applicants must confirm that the information provided is accurate, agree to receive updates about their application and permit CREDICORP and its partners to assess their eligibility.

The programme is currently being introduced through a 1,000-laptop pilot phase targeted mainly at participants of the Federal Government’s Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative.

CREDICORP disclosed that the pilot began in Abuja, where 77 beneficiaries had already received their devices, while distribution to successful applicants in other states would continue in phases.

The phased rollout follows a similar approach adopted by CREDICORP during the launch of its broader consumer credit programme in 2024, which initially focused on federal government workers before expanding to other Nigerians.

Meanwhile, the C.L.I.C.K.D. application portal also lists several other digital skills programmes, including the Andela Learning Community, Learn2Earn, ALX Africa, HNG Internship, AltSchool Africa and Genesys Tech Hub.

Although CREDICORP has highlighted 3MTT fellows as the main beneficiaries of the pilot phase, it has not yet provided full details on whether participants from other listed programmes will also qualify.

The corporation is also yet to release specific financial terms of the credit arrangement, including interest rates, repayment duration and whether beneficiaries will be required to make an initial payment before receiving their devices.