Bridging the Digital Divide in Nigeria: Examining the Role of Digital Inclusion in Enhancing Well-Being Among University Students

Abstract

With digital technologies becoming increasingly integral to daily life and pivotal in shaping the future, their influence on individual well-being has attracted growing attention from researchers. Yet, despite decades of investigation, there remains limited clear evidence on whether digital technology positively or negatively affects well-being. This study explores a framework aimed at promoting digital inclusion to address the digital divide, ensuring fair access to technology and supporting a digitally empowered society that enhances overall well-being, including happiness and life satisfaction. Using a convenience sampling approach, data were collected from 238 university students in Nigeria, providing a solid basis for evaluating 12 hypotheses. The proposed model was analyzed through partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 4. Results indicate that digital inclusion is essential for understanding individuals’ engagement with technology and how such interactions offer critical resources that contribute to well-being. Most hypothesized relationships were supported, except for the link between digital inclusion and life satisfaction, and the mediating role of resources between digital inclusion and life happiness. The study’s findings carry significant implications for educational institutions, government agencies, and organizations seeking to enhance well-being through equitable access to digital technologies.