The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, has emphasized the critical role of technology and digital solutions in enhancing governance and public service delivery across Nigeria. Speaking at the Nigeria GovTech Conference and Awards, organized by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Inuwa noted that embracing digital innovations is key to driving efficient service delivery and economic growth.
Themed “Digital Innovations as a Catalyst for the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the conference brought together stakeholders to discuss the transformative potential of technology in governance. Inuwa stressed that digitalization is essential to implementing the Federal Government’s policies effectively, leading to a more inclusive digital economy that benefits all Nigerians.
“By leveraging technology, we can improve how policies and programs are executed, resulting in better governance and driving Nigeria’s economic development. This is aligned with the Federal Government’s vision to create a thriving digital economy,” Inuwa stated.
Inuwa underscored the importance of a comprehensive agenda focused on human capital development, digital literacy, and skills training in both formal and informal sectors. He noted that these efforts would empower Nigerians and facilitate economic growth through digital transformation, particularly as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
To achieve these objectives, NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 (SRAP 2024-2027) has been designed with eight key pillars: Digital Literacy and Talent Development, Strengthening the Technology Research Ecosystem, Enhancing Policy and Legal Frameworks, Promoting Access to Digital Infrastructure, Improving Cybersecurity, Nurturing Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Building Strategic Partnerships, and Fostering a Dynamic Workforce.
Inuwa highlighted the importance of the “Foster Digital Literacy and Cultivate Talents” pillar, which focuses on harnessing human capital to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation. He projected that by 2030, the country aims to achieve 95% digital literacy.
“Our goal is to reach 70% digital literacy by 2027, and we are working on several initiatives to make this a reality,” Inuwa said. He mentioned that NITDA is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to incorporate digital skills into the national curriculum, ensuring that students gain essential digital literacy as part of their formal education.
The second initiative targets informal sectors, such as market women and artisans, to equip them with the digital skills necessary for improving their businesses. Additionally, Inuwa discussed the “Digital Literacy for All” initiative, which is being implemented in collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 12 states, with plans to expand it nationwide. This initiative aims to train 30 million Nigerians in digital skills.
In his opening remarks, the Director General of BPSR, Dasuki Arabi, emphasized that digital transformation is vital for enhancing public service delivery, improving citizen engagement, and promoting inclusive governance. He noted that e-governance reforms have the potential to position Nigeria as a leader in digital governance, increasing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public administration.
“With the right technology and innovation, we can achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda’s goals and build a more prosperous and inclusive society for all Nigerians,” Arabi added.
The conference highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and educational institutions in fostering digital innovation and ensuring Nigeria’s progress in the global digital economy.
