The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has urged Nigerians to see technology as a neutral tool that can help drive the country’s socio-economic development when used purposefully.
Speaking during a virtual panel session themed “Culture and Innovation: The Changing Landscape and Technoculture,” Inuwa—represented by Barr. Emmanuel Edet, NITDA’s Acting Director of Regulation and Compliance—highlighted the importance of balancing cultural values with innovation and economic growth.
The event was hosted by the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, in partnership with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and UNESCO, bringing together stakeholders to explore how technology is influencing both culture and creativity in today’s world.
Inuwa explained that while technology itself isn’t inherently good or bad, the way it’s used makes all the difference. He called for smart policies and stronger partnerships to ensure that digital tools are used in ways that support Nigeria’s cultural heritage and national progress.
He pointed to creative tools like Canva, CorelDRAW, and Figma, which now include Artificial Intelligence features, as examples of how technology is transforming creative work. According to him, it’s crucial that Nigerians are equipped with the digital skills to take advantage of these tools.
To support this goal, Inuwa noted that NITDA has set up digital learning centers across the country, while its National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) continues to offer hands-on training and incubate tech talent through hubs and innovation programs.
He also unveiled the newly launched National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which sets out Nigeria’s plans to lead in AI innovation, particularly in ways that promote inclusion, protect intellectual property, and strengthen key sectors of the economy.
Additionally, Inuwa mentioned the National Blockchain Policy, which helps creative professionals like musicians, artists, and filmmakers protect their works by using blockchain to verify ownership and reduce piracy.
“Technology is just a tool — its value depends on how we use it,” Inuwa said. “Our mission is to make sure that it serves our people by boosting the creative economy and supporting sustainable growth.”
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Ibrahim Suleiman from the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy said the gathering came at the right time, offering a chance to reflect on how best to support the sector through innovation and policy.
Discussions at the event covered several key areas, including using digital tools to empower creatives, preserving cultural identity, creating new jobs, and making Nigeria more competitive globally.
With strong participation from government, private sector experts, and thought leaders, the summit highlighted the growing role of technologies like AI and blockchain in transforming Nigeria’s cultural and creative industries for the better.
