To advance Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has emphasized the necessity of a safe and inclusive online environment. This includes responsible human and Artificial Intelligence (AI) practices in the country.
Inuwa made this statement while hosting a TikTok team at the Agency’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja. The visit aimed to seek an alliance to bolster the country’s digital security, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priority of strengthening national security for peace and prosperity.
The DG stated that content moderation strategies will help address online issues such as hate speech, misinformation, and cyberbullying, particularly in protecting minors across the country.
“With the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries in place, this has helped in ensuring digital safety in accordance with global best practices and content moderation to enhance security,” Inuwa said.
He further noted, “No organisation or institution can operate in silos; we need each other for the actualisation of our goals and objectives towards service delivery and for the advancement of the Nation.”
Inuwa highlighted several critical areas where leveraging platforms like TikTok can advance the country:
1. Digital Literacy 4 All (DL4ALL)
2. Capacity building
3. Knowledge sharing
4. Training
5. Curbing misinformation6. Ensuring digital safety
These initiatives aim to create a safer cyberspace and an empowering online environment for Nigerian users.
He added that TikTok allows for creative expression through filters, stickers, and editing tools. Entertainment and comedy are dominant themes, and informational videos on various topics are gaining traction, making TikTok a launchpad for influencers and trends that can go viral.
Inuwa also explained that NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 (SRAP 2024-2027) is structured around eight pillars:
1. Fostering Digital Literacy and Cultivating Talents
2. Building a Robust Technology Research Ecosystem
3. Strengthening Policy Implementation and Legal Frameworks
4. Promoting Inclusive Access to Digital Infrastructure and Services
5. Enhancing Cybersecurity and Digital Trust
6. Nurturing an Innovative and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
7. Forging Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
8. Cultivating a Vibrant Organisational Culture with an Agile Workforce
In her remarks, Mrs. Tokunbo Ibrahim, Head of Government Regulation and Public Policy for TikTok Nigeria and West Africa, revealed that NITDA is one of its biggest and most critical stakeholders in Nigeria. She commended NITDA for its outstanding strides and performance in advancing the digital economy sector.
Ibrahim praised NITDA for its initiatives, programs, and policies, which align with TikTok’s goals. These initiatives provide Nigerians with opportunities to market, sell, and export their products and services, as well as showcase their talents to the outside world.
She highlighted projects and programs that TikTok has collaborated on, such as the Africa Creator Hub, which supports, empowers, and educates tech creators on how to create content and explore other sections of the platform. This collaboration aims to change their narrative and add value to their activities.
Ibrahim also emphasized that online safety is a critical area for TikTok. The platform strives to secure cyberspace and provide an avenue for users to thrive and be productive in their various activities.
Currently, TikTok is running African Mall to push the narrative of Africa to the world. Creators are being equipped with information to create content for products and services in Nigeria, which can be exported to other countries, attracting investments.
