
Nigeria’s digital future is taking center stage, and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is confidently leading that charge. At the recent GITEX Africa event held in Morocco, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, passionately urged international investors to consider Nigeria as a top destination for technology and innovation opportunities.
Inuwa presented Nigeria as a rapidly growing digital economy and described how the country’s youthful population, expanding broadband infrastructure, and vibrant tech startups fuel innovation. Rather than just participating in the global tech race, Nigeria aims to lead in several areas. According to him, now is the best time for investors to engage with the country’s technology space.
The DG emphasized that NITDA already implements its digital future plans through deliberate policies and programs. He explained that the agency’s strategic roadmap focuses on talent development, digital literacy, cybersecurity, and innovation ecosystems. Highlighting NITDA’s partnerships with global firms and local startups, he pointed to growing interest and impact.
During his presentation, Inuwa stressed that Nigeria treats digital transformation as a national priority rather than just a government project. The private sector, academic institutions, and development partners actively work with the agency to build a future-ready society. He emphasized that technology can improve lives, create jobs, and lift communities out of poverty.
Inuwa also pointed out that Nigeria offers access to one of the largest markets in Africa. With over 200 million people, most under 30, the country has the right ingredients for scalable digital solutions. Investors have opportunities to explore areas like e-commerce, fintech, health tech, agritech, and education technology. Innovation in these sectors can transform the continent and benefit everyone.
NITDA’s digital future also focuses on inclusion and sustainability. The DG shared how the agency ensures that rural communities do not get left behind in the digital shift. Programs targeting women, persons with disabilities, and underserved areas form part of NITDA’s digital inclusion mandate. These initiatives already expand access and create opportunities at the grassroots.
Inuwa assured participants that Nigeria improves its ease of doing business. Ongoing reforms reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, improve access to financing, and protect intellectual property. The government remains ready to listen to investors and support ideas aligning with national goals.
He ended his speech by encouraging African governments to collaborate more on digital development. Shared platforms, cross-border partnerships, and policy alignment will drive faster growth, he noted. Inuwa invited African countries to learn from Nigeria’s model and adapt what works best in their local context.
Through its work at GITEX and beyond, NITDA continues to position Nigeria as a digital leader in Africa. The agency shows strong commitment to building a future where technology drives economic growth and social progress. Investors, innovators, and citizens alike have reasons to believe in the vision of a smart, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria.