Nigeria is actively repositioning itself as a producer and exporter of digital solutions, driven by a suite of transformative national initiatives. This assertion was made by the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, at the African Creators Conference 2025 in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme, “The Future of Africa in the Global Digital Economy,” the NITDA DG, represented by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, Director of Stakeholders Management and Partnerships, issued a clear mandate: “Africa Must Become Creators, Not Just Users of Technology.”
Inuwa reiterated his vision for Africa to transition from being a mere consumer of technology to a creator and exporter of digital solutions. He emphasized the continent’s vast potential, noting that with over 1.4 billion people—more than 60% under the age of 25—Africa is uniquely positioned to shape the future of technology and innovation.
Highlighting Nigeria’s leadership in this transformation, the DG cited key statistics and initiatives:
- Connectivity: Over 126 million internet users and 205 million mobile subscriptions.
- Talent Development: Transformative programs such as the 3 Million Technical Talent initiative.
- Policy and Strategy: The newly enacted Nigeria Startup Act and NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0.
“These efforts are aimed at repositioning Nigeria as a producer and exporter of digital solutions,” Inuwa stated, urging the nation’s innovators and creators to take their rightful place as global solution providers.
The NITDA boss also underscored the importance of regional collaboration to maximize Africa’s digital potential. He advocated for harmonizing policies and making strategic infrastructure investments across the continent, utilizing frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), to unlock trillions of dollars in potential value.
In conclusion, Inuwa challenged stakeholders at the conference—which convened over 3,000 creators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers—to embrace the task of building a digitally empowered Africa. “The choices we make today will determine whether Africa remains on the margins or takes its rightful place at the centre of global digital transformation,” he stressed.