NITDA makes case for digital economy in Nigeria
As the global economy is experiencing massive, accelerated digital transformation, resulting in the creation of new business models, innovative products and services, and very different ways of doing business, Nigerians have been urged to key into the opportunities embedded in the digital economy for sustainable development.
The Director-General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi CCIE gave the charge in his opening remarks during a stakeholder engagement and ecosystem development Programme with the theme, “Creating Opportunities, Breaking Boundaries: Towards Digitalization and Entrepreneurial Evolution,” in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital on Tuesday, 29th August 2023.
The DG who was represented by the Director, Zonal Offices Directorates, Mr. Ajayi Babajide said the forum is set to chart a course that will redefine industries, empower individuals, and shape the future of Nigeria adding that modern digital technologies have changed how uncertainty in business processes and results works and how to handle the uncertainty.
His words, “This brings up important questions about where digital technologies and entrepreneurship intersect, especially in digital business. We think about two main results: more flexible business processes and results, and less fixed places where business decisions are made.
“Digitalization is when digital technology becomes a part of every aspect of society. It is not just a fancy word but it is what causes big changes in industries. It changes how we do business, care for our health, educate ourselves, and even govern. Digitalization changes things for the better, eliminates obstacles, and creates new chances that we couldn’t even think of before. Our responsibility is to take hold of these possibilities and use them to transform society.
“The heart of this transformation beats in rhythm with the spirit of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs are the visionaries who recognize gaps, identify needs, and dare to innovate. They are the architects of change who challenge the status quo and lead us into uncharted territory. Today, as we focus on entrepreneurial evolution, we underscore the need to nurture a culture that not only welcomes innovation but also celebrates resilience in the face of adversity. To encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, NITDA established the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) and the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). These Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) have supported startups, including technology incubation, acceleration programs, and training for students. The innovation ecosystem in Nigeria has attracted significant investments and produced multiple successful startups, including unicorns.
“Creating opportunities demands a multi-stakeholder approach. We must continue to foster an environment where creativity flourishes, risk is cushioned by support, and innovation is rewarded. Our digital landscape is bursting with ideas waiting to be transformed into impactful solutions. As we engage in conversations and partnerships today, let us remember that each connection forged, each idea shared, and each resource pooled is a step towards unlocking these opportunities.
“Breaking boundaries is not a solitary endeavour. It requires collaboration among government, the private sector, academia, and others in society. This event has brought brilliant minds together and it is a testament to our shared commitment to dismantle barriers that hinder progress. By promoting knowledge exchange, facilitating access to resources, and fostering mentorship, we enable a wave of innovation that transcends traditional limits.
“Furthermore, in our quest for digitalization, inclusivity must be our guiding principle. The true measure of our success lies not just in the strides made by some, but in the progress achieved by all. Bridging the digital divide, enhancing digital literacy, and ensuring equitable access to technology are vital components of our journey. Only then can we proudly declare that we are on the path of complete transformation. NITDA is currently drafting the National Digital Equality Strategy for Women (NDESW), which seeks to ensure equitable access and opportunities in the digital environment, empowering women to fully participate in the digital economy. Also, the National Digital Skills Strategy (NDSS) is a strategic roadmap that will aid digital literacy and talent development in Nigeria.”
He noted that NITDA stands as a beacon of guidance as Nigeria navigates digitalization and entrepreneurial evolution and also assured that the body is committed to providing an enabling environment, a framework of support, and a platform for collaboration that empowers all stakeholders to be catalysts of change.
Abdullahi further explained that the meeting is to serve as a veritable platform to pool knowledge, experience, and expertise, and to co-create solutions, articulate strategies, and extend their services to all stakeholders, especially at the grassroots.
He maintained that the objectives of the programme are to offer the stakeholders in the State ICT ecosystem the opportunity to express their views and opinions on matters related to the Agency’s implementation of its mandate and provide an avenue for sensitization, familiarization and enhancement of the working relationship between the Agency and the key IT Stakeholders at the state level as well as establish a sustainable model of collaborations and consistent channels for feedback and the exchange of ideas.
While declaring the event open, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Imo Moffat commended NITDA for the choice of the State for the meeting which according to him, the subject matter for deliberation is in line with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda and urged the stakeholders to unlock the potential of IT to transform Nigeria and empower the citizens.
In his paper entitled “Strategic Roadmap and Action Plans: NITDA in Focus,” the Head of Legal Services, NITDA, Barr. Emmanuel Edet said NITDA which was established in 2001 has so far achieved a lot including a modern digital fabrication lab – Abuja FabLab 1.0, innovation ventures such as The FUNDUS AI startup, Knowledge sharing visits/digital literacy sessions on Emerging Technologies at NCAIR: 3,468, Programmes: TIES Scheme, NINJA, B2MC, iHatch, NEST, SB4KIDS, MIT REAP, Success stories: Chekkit; RiceAfrika; Sudo Africa among others.
He noted that as technology continues to transform industries and create new opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship is essential for sustainable growth and competitiveness while calling for partnerships to create more digital opportunities.
Goodwill messages were received from various stakeholders in the ICT and digital industries and a communique was issued at the end of the deliberations.
