Expanding frontiers of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem

Nigeria's National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is at the forefront of building a robust technology research ecosystem and promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure and services as part of its strategic roadmap. This initiative aims to expand the frontiers of the country's tech ecosystem and drive economic growth through digital transformation and innovation in critical sectors. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Abdullahi, shed light on the progress made and the future impact of this strategy. One of the key priorities outlined in NITDA's strategic plan is to foster digital literacy and cultivate talent among Nigerian citizens. With a target of achieving 95% digital literacy by 2030 and a mid-term goal of 70% by 2027, the agency is implementing various initiatives to bridge the digital divide across gender, age demographics, and disabilities. By empowering citizens to use digital devices and platforms safely and responsibly, NITDA aims to position Nigeria as a leading talent exporter. In addition to enhancing digital literacy, NITDA is focusing on fostering collaboration between academia and industry to drive technological research and innovation. By building a robust technology research ecosystem, the agency aims to position Nigeria among the top 25 percentile in critical research areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, blockchain, Internet of Things, UAV, and additive manufacturing. Initiatives like issuing research grants for AI projects and launching calls for applications in partnership with key ministries and stakeholders underscore NITDA's commitment to driving research and development in emerging technologies. Moreover, NITDA is spearheading initiatives to leverage first industrial revolution technologies like AI, UAV, and blockchain in agriculture to enhance productivity and food security. Collaborative efforts with the Ministry for Food Security and Agriculture, as well as partnerships with international organizations like the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), demonstrate NITDA's commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable agricultural development and smallholder empowerment. As Nigeria's tech ecosystem continues to evolve, NITDA's strategic roadmap plays a pivotal role in driving innovation, research, and digital inclusion across the country. By prioritizing digital literacy, talent development, industry-academia collaboration, and technology-driven solutions for critical sectors like agriculture, NITDA is paving the way for Nigeria's digital transformation and economic growth in the global tech landscape.