The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is taking strides in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within an evolving ecosystem. At the NITDA Co-Create West Africa Tech Expo in Lagos, Director General Kashifu Inuwa stressed the need for collaborative efforts between the government and tech ecosystem to nurture budding talents.
In his keynote address themed “Evolve,” Inuwa emphasized providing start-ups with access to capital and networking platforms.
He shared, “We believe no one should live in isolation, so we need to work as an ecosystem to create value together.”
The NITDA boss urged stakeholders to engage in a strategic partnership, emphasizing the importance of implementing the Nigerian Start-up Act and building a robust ecosystem.
Further, he introduced the agency’s Strategic Road-map and Action Plan 2024-2027, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priority of “Accelerating Diversification through Industrialisation and Digitisation.”
Inuwa invited collaboration, stating, “If you and government can work together, we can do better things; together, we can do greater things.”
The new NITDA roadmap outlines eight pillars, including fostering digital literacy, strengthening policy frameworks, and nurturing an innovative ecosystem. The agency encourages a vibrant work culture and agile workforce.
Addressing the event, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Communications Commission emphasized Nigeria’s tech strengths, such as a vibrant population and strategic location. He urged addressing challenges like infrastructure deficits and unreliable power to foster innovation.
Johnson Aroh, the convener of GAGE Award, highlighted the significance of NITDA Co-Create West Africa as a platform driving digital transformation and fostering creativity. He commended NITDA for promoting technological innovation and digital inclusion, emphasizing the need to embrace diverse perspectives for a tech-driven positive change across Africa.