Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi, the Director-General of NITDA, emphasizes the need for industry collaboration to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation. With internet penetration over 55% and significant contributions expected from the digital economy, he highlights the roles of innovation, policy, and public-private partnerships in supporting sustainable growth. Abdullahi champions initiatives for digital literacy and regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible technology use, calling for joint efforts among all stakeholders to realize a productive digital future.
The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi, emphasized the necessity for enhanced industry collaboration to expedite Nigeria’s digital transformation. During The Omniverse Summit 2025 in Lagos, represented by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, he highlighted that innovation and policy are critical drivers of sustainable digital development.
Noting that internet penetration exceeds 55% and the digital economy is projected to contribute over 20% to Nigeria’s GDP by 2030, Abdullahi pointed to flourishing fintech companies like Flutterwave and Paystack as examples of local innovation attracting significant investment. Furthermore, he addressed the impact of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things on various sectors, including governance and agriculture.
To sustain this growth, NITDA is committed to fostering innovation via research, talent development, and startup support. These initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide and enhance digital literacy throughout the nation. Abdullahi underscored the need for policies that adapt to this evolving landscape, emphasizing frameworks such as the Nigeria Startup Act to nurture innovation effectively.
He also highlighted the importance of dynamic regulatory measures through NITDA’s Regulatory Intelligence Framework, ensuring that policies are informed by real-time data and industry needs while safeguarding consumer interests. Abdullahi pressed for stronger data protection laws and cybersecurity measures to promote responsible technology use.
Public-private partnerships are crucial for Nigeria’s digital progression. He referenced collaborations between the Federal Government and major tech firms like Microsoft and Google, which are vital for improving digital infrastructure. The recent partnership with Google aims to position Nigeria as a global tech hub by enhancing infrastructure and citizen education in technology.
NITDA is focused on advancing digital literacy, particularly through the Digital Literacy for All initiative in partnership with the NYSC, aiming for a 70% literacy rate by 2027. Abdullahi noted that strengthening industry and academia connections is vital for preparing a workforce equipped for global competition.
He also acknowledged the prospects offered by Nigeria’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which allows for harmonization of digital trade policies and compelling market expansions. These strategies are expected to attract foreign investment and reaffirm Nigeria’s status as a leader in digital services.
In conclusion, Abdullahi urged all stakeholders—including the government, private sector, academia, and tech innovators—to unite in realizing a future where digital transformation is a tangible reality, driving sustainable economic growth. He encapsulated this vision, stating, “As the theme of this summit states, we are truly ‘Unified by Vision and Empowered by Collaboration.’”
The Director-General of NITDA, Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi, articulated the significance of industry collaboration in driving Nigeria’s digital transformation during The Omniverse Summit 2025. With the digital economy poised for substantial growth, he underscored the necessity for adaptive policies, strong partnerships, and enhanced digital literacy initiatives. Abdullahi’s call for collective action amongst stakeholders aims to create a digitally empowered and economically prosperous Nigeria.
Original Source: sciencenigeria.com
