Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi, DG of NITDA, advocates for increased industry collaboration to advance Nigeria’s digital transformation. He discussed the significance of innovation and tailored policies during The Omniverse Summit 2025 while highlighting Nigeria’s expanding digital economy, the role of fintech, and the impact of emerging technologies across various sectors. Abdullahi also stressed the importance of partnerships and digital literacy initiatives in preparing Nigeria’s workforce for global competition.
Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi, director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has called for enhanced collaboration across industries to propel Nigeria’s digital transformation. At The Omniverse Summit 2025, represented by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, he emphasized that innovation and policy are critical to sustainable digital growth.
He noted that internet penetration in Nigeria has surpassed 55%, and the digital economy is expected to contribute over 20% to the GDP by 2030, with thriving local fintech companies like Flutterwave and Paystack attracting significant investments. Emerging technologies, including AI, blockchain, and IoT, are shaping various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education.
To uphold this progress, NITDA is dedicated to facilitating innovation through research, development, talent cultivation, and support for startups aimed at narrowing the digital divide and enhancing digital literacy. Abdullahi highlighted the importance of adaptive policies and regulatory frameworks like the Nigeria Startup Act in fostering an environment conducive to innovation.
He also addressed the need for robust data protection laws, cybersecurity measures, and responsible AI governance. Strong public-private partnerships, particularly with global tech leaders such as Microsoft and Google, are vital for Nigeria’s digital infrastructure growth.
A notable agreement with Google aims to elevate Nigeria to a global tech hub, focusing on infrastructural development and enhancing investment frameworks alongside AI innovation. Abdullahi also stressed NITDA’s commitment to boosting digital literacy through initiatives like the Digital Literacy for All program, which targets 70% digital literacy by 2027.
Collaboration between industry and academia is essential for effectively translating theoretical knowledge into practical applications, ensuring a workforce skilled in technology. Furthermore, Nigeria’s engagement in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers promising opportunities in digital trade, allowing efficient harmonization of policies and enabling entry into new markets.
Abdullahi encouraged all stakeholders—government, the private sector, academia, and tech innovators—to collectively foster a future where digital transformation becomes a tangible reality for sustainable growth. He concluded by stating, “As the theme of this summit states, we are truly ‘Unified by Vision and Empowered by Collaboration.’ Let us seize this moment to build a Nigeria where technology serves as an equaliser, empowering every citizen, every business and every sector.”
The NITDA DG, Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi, underscores the necessity for industry collaboration to advance Nigeria’s digital landscape. With a strong emphasis on innovation and adaptive policies, NITDA remains committed to fostering a vibrant tech ecosystem through public-private partnerships and enhanced digital literacy initiatives. Ultimately, a unified approach among all stakeholders is crucial for materializing Nigeria’s digital future.
Original Source: sciencenigeria.com
