The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Nigeria’s digital transformation through innovation, emerging technologies, and digital skills development, as part of the Federal Government’s broader vision of building a globally competitive digital economy.
This commitment was highlighted during the 2026 Port Harcourt Tech Expo, held at the EUI Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where NITDA joined industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and development partners to explore strategies for accelerating technology-driven growth and economic development.
Delivering the opening keynote address on behalf of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NITDA, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, the Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, Dr. Aristotle Onumo, emphasized the critical role of technology and innovation in shaping Nigeria’s future prosperity.
Speaking at the two-day event themed “Syntropy: Collective Futures – Systems, Solutions, Synergy and Societies,” he noted that nations that invest in digital talent, innovation ecosystems, and emerging technologies will be better positioned to compete in the evolving global economy.
According to him, Nigeria’s greatest asset lies not in its natural resources but in the creativity, resilience, and potential of its people. He stressed that developing digital skills and fostering innovation would be instrumental in unlocking economic opportunities, attracting investments, and creating sustainable jobs for millions of Nigerians.
“The future belongs to nations that can harness the power of technology and human capital. Our focus must remain on building the right ecosystem that empowers innovators, nurtures talent, and enables businesses to thrive in the digital age,” he stated.
Dr. Onumo highlighted the transformative impact of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), cloud computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital platforms, noting that these innovations are redefining industries, governance, education, healthcare, and commerce across the globe.
He further outlined NITDA’s ongoing implementation of its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), which prioritizes digital literacy, emerging technologies, innovation development, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure expansion, and inclusive economic growth.
The Agency also underscored the importance of stronger collaboration among government institutions, private sector players, academic institutions, development organizations, and the startup community to maximize the opportunities presented by the digital economy and empower Nigeria’s youthful population.
The Port Harcourt Tech Expo served as a platform for robust discussions on Artificial Intelligence, startup development, innovation financing, digital skills, entrepreneurship, technology adoption, and ecosystem growth. Participants explored practical approaches to positioning the Niger Delta region as a leading hub for innovation, technology development, and digital entrepreneurship.
Discussions also focused on addressing challenges related to skills development, infrastructure deficits, startup funding, and the commercialization of innovative solutions, while identifying pathways for strengthening the region’s technology ecosystem.
As part of its participation, NITDA engaged with startups, technology firms, innovation hubs, academic institutions, and development partners to explore collaborative opportunities that can drive digital inclusion and innovation-led development across the country.
The Agency further showcased several of its flagship initiatives, including the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) programme, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), and innovation-focused programmes under the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI).
Stakeholders at the event commended NITDA’s sustained efforts in advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, citing the Agency’s growing impact in promoting digital literacy, supporting startups, strengthening innovation ecosystems, and fostering technology adoption nationwide.
The expo concluded with a renewed call for deeper collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate innovation, create opportunities for young Nigerians, and position the country as a leading digital economy in Africa.
As Nigeria continues its journey toward a technology-driven future, NITDA reiterated its commitment to building strategic partnerships, developing digital talent, supporting innovation, and creating an enabling environment that delivers sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity for all citizens.
