The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has emphasised the crucial role of data in driving a sustainable digital economy. At the recently concluded 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, the agency stressed the importance of safe and responsible data utilisation.
NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, represented by the Director of Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions Department, Mr Oladejo Olawumi, highlighted the significance of data sovereignty in securing Nigeria’s digital future. By prioritising data security and privacy, the agency aims to cultivate a thriving digital ecosystem that benefits both individuals and businesses.
The Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, organised by NITDA’s Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), showcased the talent and innovation of Nigerian tech entrepreneurs. The event further reinforced the agency’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant digital community and empowering the next generation of tech leaders.
In line with the agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0, Inuwa stated that the event underscores NITDA’s vision to position Nigeria as a global leader in the digital economy, creating opportunities for innovators to flourish in an ever-evolving technological landscape.
“The issue of having something home-grown is very important because when it comes to data, you realise that Data is the currency of the digital economy. It is what is driving us now and everything is all about data,” he added.
Speaking on the event’s relevance to the SRAP pillars of Robust Technological Research Ecosystem, Foster Digital Literacy and Cultivate Talents, Nurture an Innovative and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, and Promote Inclusive Access to Digital Infrastructure and Services, he urged participants to leverage the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA) to promote their solutions.
“The Nigeria Startup Act enables you to secure proper funding to develop your ideas and connect with angel investors to gain support and bring your innovations to the forefront,” he noted.
Inuwa also disclosed that NITDA will establish “Innovation Nests” in three states, with plans to expand to six more by the end of the year. These centres are designed to inspire creativity and provide facilities for work, leisure, and networking with investors.
“These centres will be world-class, offering spaces to relax, collaborate, and attract global investment,” Inuwa explained.
“Whether you win today or not, this platform is a step towards achieving your dreams. Nigeria has the talent, and NITDA is here to ensure that talent is nurtured and celebrated,” he concluded.
Earlier, the National Coordinator of the ONDI, Ms Victoria Fabunmi, stated that the event was designed to spotlight groundbreaking ideas and foster collaboration within Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
Emphasising the agency’s commitment to advancing digital innovations through strategic initiatives, she asserted that the innovation challenge aligns with the agency’s SRAP and the Ministry’s blueprint pillars of Knowledge, Innovation, and Policy.
“Participants have an opportunity to showcase their ingenious ideas, as they have spent months exploring infrastructure across the country and helping us identify areas for opportunity and strengthening our innovation ecosystem,” she stated.