The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed the pivotal role of data in fostering a sustainable digital economy, emphasizing the importance of safe and responsible data use. Speaking at the recently concluded 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, represented by the Director of Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions, Mr. Oladejo Olawumi, underscored the concept of data sovereignty as critical to Nigeria’s digital future.
By prioritizing data security and privacy, NITDA aims to cultivate a robust digital ecosystem that supports both individuals and businesses. The Innovation Challenge, organized by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), provided a platform to showcase the creativity and expertise of Nigerian tech entrepreneurs. The event reinforced NITDA’s mission to nurture a vibrant digital community and empower the next generation of technology leaders.
Highlighting the event’s alignment with the agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0, Inuwa stated that it reflects NITDA’s vision to position Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy. “Data is the currency of the digital economy. It drives innovation and everything we do. The importance of having home-grown solutions cannot be overstated,” he remarked.
Inuwa urged participants to leverage the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA) to promote their solutions, secure funding, and connect with angel investors. He also revealed plans to establish “Innovation Nests” in three states, with expansion to six more by the end of the year. These centres are designed to inspire creativity, featuring state-of-the-art facilities for work, leisure, and networking with global investors.
“These centres will be world-class, offering spaces to relax, collaborate, and attract global investment,” he explained. “Whether you win today or not, this platform is a step towards achieving your dreams. Nigeria has the talent, and NITDA is here to ensure that talent is nurtured and celebrated,” Inuwa concluded.
In her opening remarks, ONDI National Coordinator, Ms. Victoria Fabunmi, emphasized the agency’s dedication to advancing digital innovation through strategic initiatives. She noted that the Innovation Challenge was designed to highlight transformative ideas and foster collaboration within Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
“Participants have an opportunity to showcase their ingenious ideas,” Fabunmi said. “They have spent months identifying areas for opportunity and strengthening the nation’s innovation ecosystem.”
The 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge exemplifies NITDA’s ongoing commitment to advancing the country’s digital economy while fostering an environment for innovation and entrepreneurial growth.