The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated the critical role of data in building a sustainable digital economy, emphasizing the importance of secure and responsible data utilization. This message was central at the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, a showcase of talent and innovation organized by NITDA’s Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI).
Representing NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, the Director of Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions, Mr. Oladejo Olawumi, highlighted the significance of data sovereignty in shaping Nigeria’s digital future. He described data as “the currency of the digital economy,” stressing that its security and privacy are paramount to ensuring the nation’s leadership in the global digital landscape.
The Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge provided a platform for Nigerian tech entrepreneurs to present their groundbreaking ideas, fostering collaboration and spotlighting the country’s innovation potential. The event aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0, which prioritizes a robust technological research ecosystem, digital literacy, talent cultivation, and inclusive access to digital infrastructure.
“The challenge underscores our vision of positioning Nigeria as a leader in the digital economy while empowering innovators to thrive in a dynamic technological landscape,” said Inuwa. He also encouraged participants to leverage the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA), which offers funding opportunities and connects entrepreneurs with angel investors to bring their ideas to life.
In a major announcement, NITDA disclosed plans to establish “Innovation Nests” in three states, with an expansion to six more locations by year-end. These hubs are designed to inspire creativity, providing spaces for work, leisure, and networking with global investors. “These centres will be world-class, offering environments that encourage collaboration and attract investment,” Inuwa explained.
In her opening remarks, ONDI’s National Coordinator, Ms. Victoria Fabunmi, emphasized the agency’s commitment to advancing digital innovation through strategic initiatives. She described the event as an opportunity for participants to explore Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and identify areas for growth. “This challenge is designed to spotlight groundbreaking ideas and strengthen collaboration within the tech ecosystem,” she said, aligning the initiative with the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy’s blueprint pillars of Knowledge, Innovation, and Policy.
Inuwa concluded the event with words of encouragement for participants: “Whether you win or not, this platform is a step toward realizing your dreams. Nigeria has the talent, and NITDA is here to nurture and celebrate it.”
The 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge underscored NITDA’s resolve to create a thriving digital ecosystem, fostering home-grown solutions and empowering the next generation of tech leaders to drive Nigeria’s transformation into a global digital powerhouse.
