In a recent push for digital inclusivity, Kashifu Inuwa, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has emphasized the need for significant investment in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This investment is crucial for integrating digital technologies into the nation’s economy, thereby driving technological advancement.
During a meeting with a delegation from the African Development Bank (AfDB) at NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja, Inuwa highlighted the pivotal role of ICT in creating opportunities, enhancing service delivery, fostering job creation, improving security, and revolutionizing traditional methods. The delegation, led by Ms. Edosio Uyoyo and Traore Toho Syevie, discussed various initiatives being implemented by the Bank and the impact of ICT on a country’s development.
Inuwa outlined NITDA’s commitment to constructing additional Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and developing tailored modalities to meet the nation’s needs. This initiative aims to ensure swift and accessible digital services for citizens across the country.
Furthermore, Inuwa shared insights into NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2024-2027) 2.0. The roadmap is structured around eight pillars, including fostering digital literacy, building a robust technology research ecosystem, strengthening policy implementation, promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, nurturing an innovative ecosystem, forging strategic partnerships, and cultivating a vibrant organizational culture.
The Agency’s strategic roadmap aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s priorities to accelerate diversification through industrialization, digitization, and innovation.
Ms. Edosio Uyoyo, the Principal ICT and Innovation Expert from the African Development Bank, commended NITDA’s initiatives and their transformative impact on operational efficiency and service delivery. She mentioned that the Bank has a framework covering the period from 2020 to 2024 and expressed the need for completion reports to guide future initiatives from 2025 to 2029.
“We are here for the completion reports to guide us towards planning for the next initiative of a four-year plan from 2025-2029. We want to know and understand key areas you are focusing on, and we need the bank to prioritize support to meet up with ambitious targets at the end of the project timeframe,” she stated.
Conclusively, NITDA’s call for massive ICT investment underscores the importance of digital access in driving inclusive growth and development. By fostering collaboration and prioritizing strategic areas, NITDA aims to position Nigeria as a leader in digital transformation on the African continent.
