The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to leveraging innovation, digital skills, and emerging technologies to accelerate Nigeria’s transition into a globally competitive digital economy.
The agency reaffirmed this commitment at the Port Harcourt Tech Expo 2026 in Rivers State, where it participated as a key stakeholder in discussions focused on advancing technology-driven economic growth and innovation across the country.
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NITDA, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, represented by the Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, Dr. Aristotle Onumo, delivered the opening keynote address at the two-day event themed, “Syntropy: Collective Futures – Systems, Solutions, Synergy and Societies.”
The gathering attracted policymakers, technology leaders, startup founders, investors, academics, development partners, and young innovators.
In his address, Kashifu stressed that Nigeria’s future prosperity would increasingly depend on its ability to harness technology, innovation, and human capital rather than relying on natural resources.
He noted that the global digital economy presents significant opportunities for Nigeria and the rest of Africa to create jobs, attract investment, and improve productivity through emerging technologies.
According to him, technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital platforms are reshaping economies worldwide and creating new pathways for growth.
“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.
The NITDA boss also highlighted the agency’s ongoing implementation of its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), which prioritises digital literacy, emerging technologies, innovation, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.
He described the roadmap as a critical framework for strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and driving long-term development.
Kashifu further underscored the importance of collaboration among government, industry, academia, development partners, and the startup ecosystem in unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s youthful population.
He said collective efforts would be essential to building a resilient and innovation-driven economy capable of competing globally.
