Kashifu Inuwa is strengthening Nigeria’s role in Africa’s digital future. As the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), he now serves on the Board of Smart Africa. This appointment affirms his rising profile as a leader in driving technology transformation across the continent.
Smart Africa is a pan-African initiative focused on using technology to accelerate sustainable development. With over 40 African countries as members, the initiative promotes digital integration and cross-border collaboration. Nigeria’s seat on the board highlights the country’s growing influence in the tech ecosystem.
Kashifu Inuwa champions African digital integration with a clear vision. He believes in using data and innovation to solve real challenges. Through his leadership, NITDA has launched initiatives to expand digital skills, support startups, and improve public sector efficiency. These efforts have significantly boosted Nigeria’s tech ecosystem—an experience Inuwa now brings to the continental stage.
The 11th meeting of the Smart Africa Council of Ministers marked the announcement, taking place during the Transform Africa Summit 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya. The summit brought together ministers, private sector leaders, and global development partners to discuss strategies for using technology to drive Africa’s progress and bridge digital gaps.
Representing Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Inuwa delivered a message that emphasized the country’s strong commitment to digital inclusion. He shared progress updates on Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda and detailed its expanding collaboration with Smart Africa.
In his remarks, Inuwa highlighted the need for unified standards, digital identity systems, and innovation-friendly policies. He urged other African nations to embrace data-driven governance and invest in tech talent. Removing barriers, he argued, will create an environment where innovation thrives. Achieving a digitally integrated Africa, he said, depends on this kind of unified action.
Kashifu Inuwa drives African digital integration not just through advocacy but with measurable results. Under his leadership, NITDA works with regional bodies to strengthen tech hubs and increase broadband access. Nigeria continues to empower startups, train digital entrepreneurs, and promote greater participation of women in technology.
Smart Africa welcomed Nigeria back to its Board after a long absence. Countries like Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire also serve on the board. Inuwa’s inclusion brings renewed energy and practical insights. Many African leaders believe Nigeria’s success in policy reform and youth engagement offers valuable lessons for the continent.
Following the event, Inuwa expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirmed his commitment to helping Nigeria make a meaningful contribution. He emphasized Africa’s need to invest in digital education, build strong data infrastructure, and design inclusive policy frameworks. He also called for stronger collaboration between nations to unlock the full potential of African innovation.
The Transform Africa Summit concluded with renewed commitments to cross-border partnerships, smart governance, and wider access to digital tools. With Kashifu Inuwa on the Smart Africa board, expectations are high that Nigeria will help shape a new chapter of digital growth across Africa.
Kashifu Inuwa leads with both passion and precision. His work proves that Africa’s tech future can be built through unity, decisive action, and visionary innovation.
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