The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called on stakeholders across government, industry, academia, and the startup ecosystem to harness innovation and emerging technologies to accelerate Nigeria’s journey toward a globally competitive digital economy.
The agency reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to digital transformation during the Port Harcourt Tech Expo 2026, held at the EUI Centre in Rivers State. The event brought together policymakers, technology leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, academics, development partners, and young innovators to explore pathways for technology-driven economic growth.
Delivering the opening keynote address on behalf of NITDA’s Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, Dr. Aristotle Onumo, emphasized the critical role of technology and human capital development in shaping Nigeria’s future prosperity.
Speaking at the two-day event themed “Syntropy: Collective Futures – Systems, Solutions, Synergy and Societies,” Onumo said Nigeria’s economic competitiveness would increasingly depend on its ability to develop digital talent, foster innovation, and create an enabling environment for technology adoption.
He noted that emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital platforms present significant opportunities for job creation, investment attraction, and productivity growth across the country.
“The future is not something we inherit; it is something we build. Nigeria’s greatest resource is not oil but its people. Our ability to develop digital talent, foster innovation, and create enabling ecosystems will determine our competitiveness in the digital age,” he said.
According to him, AI and other digital technologies are rapidly transforming industries worldwide, making innovation a key driver of economic diversification and sustainable development.
He highlighted NITDA’s ongoing implementation of its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), which prioritizes digital literacy, emerging technologies, innovation, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.
The agency also stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among government institutions, private sector players, academic institutions, development partners, and startups to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s growing youth population.
The Port Harcourt Tech Expo featured discussions on artificial intelligence, startup development, digital skills, innovation financing, entrepreneurship, technology adoption, and ecosystem growth. Participants examined opportunities to position the Niger Delta as a leading hub for technology, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship while addressing challenges related to infrastructure, skills development, startup funding, and technology commercialization.
During the event, NITDA engaged with technology companies, innovation hubs, academic institutions, startups, and development partners to explore strategic collaborations aimed at advancing digital inclusion and innovation-led development.
The agency also showcased several flagship initiatives, including the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) programme, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), and programmes implemented under the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI).
Stakeholders at the event commended NITDA’s role in advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, citing the agency’s contributions to startup development, digital literacy promotion, and innovation ecosystem growth.
The expo concluded with renewed commitments from participants to deepen collaboration, support innovation, and expand opportunities for young Nigerians to actively participate in the digital economy.
As Nigeria continues to pursue its digital transformation objectives, NITDA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering partnerships, developing digital talent, promoting innovation, and building a technology-driven economy capable of delivering sustainable and inclusive prosperity.
