In a major step toward advancing Nigeria’s digital economy, Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has secured a landmark $11.2 million agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This collaboration will fund the construction and launch of an Innovation Hub in Abuja, designed to promote digital innovation, youth development, and economic inclusion.
The agreement took shape during the recently concluded G7 Japan ICT Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo. Representing Nigeria, Inuwa led the discussions that resulted in this impactful partnership. His leadership at the global forum reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to digital transformation and youth empowerment.
The upcoming Kashifu Inuwa Abuja Innovation Hub will function as a dynamic space for startups, tech entrepreneurs, and young professionals. With access to advanced tools, mentoring, and international partnerships, the hub aims to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and generate employment for its growing youth population.
As part of NITDA’s broader digital strategy, the project emphasizes enhancing digital literacy and entrepreneurial capacity. Inuwa outlined three focus areas for the hub: capacity building, innovation support, and technology research. He also revealed plans for advanced laboratories and collaborative development spaces within the facility.
Japan’s contribution extends beyond funding. JICA will provide technical expertise, drawing from its global experience in building smart infrastructure. Inuwa expressed confidence that this collaboration will elevate the quality of local innovations and equip Nigerian youth to compete on a global scale. He also highlighted the diplomatic value of deepening ties between Nigeria and Japan through tech-driven partnerships.
The Abuja hub will feature development zones for artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). In addition, regular hackathons and boot camps will help fast-track creative solutions and startups. Inuwa emphasized that young people will gain hands-on experience and the opportunity to turn their ideas into viable businesses.
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, joined Inuwa at the Tokyo meeting. He praised Inuwa’s initiative and diplomatic leadership, noting that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Dr. Tijani commended the hub’s focus on job creation, innovation, and technology transfer.
Inuwa has led similar digital initiatives across Nigeria, expanding digital skill access in underserved areas and encouraging inclusive tech development. The Abuja Innovation Hub marks one of his most ambitious efforts yet, with the potential to position Nigeria’s capital as a major center for innovation in West Africa.
Construction will begin later this year, and full operations are scheduled to start by 2026. This project reflects Inuwa’s bold vision to place Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s tech revolution.
As the Kashifu Inuwa Abuja Innovation Hub moves from concept to reality, it delivers a strong message: Nigeria is ready for innovation, open to global collaboration, and focused on empowering its youth.
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