The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is set to join forces with the International Financial Corporation (IFC) to co-design robust regulatory frameworks aimed at digitally transforming Nigeria and establishing strong digital economy foundations.
In the words of NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa; “The President has mandated the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to enhance productivity through technological innovation in diversifying the nation’s economy.”
“A strategic plan with 5 strategic pillars has been unveiled by the ministry to achieve this,” he continued.
The pillars outlined by Inuwa encompass knowledge, policies, infrastructure, innovation alongside entrepreneurship and capital, and finally trade. He explained knowledge forms the bedrock where Nigeria can construct sustainable digital advancement and economic prosperity.
“When we invest and we build the infrastructure, it will enable us to trade ‘made in Nigeria’ products and services, as well as our greatest resource, which is our talent,” Inuwa emphasized.
The NITDA head said his agency is reworking its key Strategic Roadmap & Action Plan policy to align with the Ministry’s digital transformation objectives. Stressing the importance of stakeholder engagement in the process, he expressed enthusiasm at IFC’s participation.
“We want it to be a strategy for execution,” Inuwa noted, outlining focus areas like national digital literacy improvements, robust technology research, increased digital inclusion countrywide, and strengthened cybersecurity frameworks.
IFC Senior Economist Nadege D. Yameogo said her organization prioritizes the digital space for its immense potential impact. She highlighted prospects like job creation, regional parity, stimulation of private investment, and channeling foreign capital into Nigeria.
Yameogo pinpointed digital infrastructure as a pivotal area requiring attention from private sector players, especially regarding agriTech, creative ventures, and healthcare technologies.
Both parties expressed eagerness at the partnership possibilities for accelerating Nigeria’s digital economic objectives.
