Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), is at the forefront of Nigeria’s economic evolution. Speaking at the Global Tech Africa Conference in Lagos, Inuwa emphasized the critical role of technology in fostering economic growth and positioning Nigeria as a global leader in the digital economy.
In an era where digital transformation is no longer a luxury but a necessity, Kashifu Inuwa, the “Digital transformation is imperative for reforming our economy into an inclusive and sustainable one,” Inuwa stated this during a panel session titled “Unlocking Liquidity: Catalyzing Growth through Strategic Investments and Innovation.” He stressed the importance of prioritizing the development of digital skills and infrastructure to enhance productivity and economic progress.
One of the cornerstone initiatives under Inuwa’s leadership is the ‘3 Million Tech Talent’ initiative. Recognizing the global talent deficit projected to reach 85 million by 2030, NITDA has identified twelve IT skills that are in high demand both locally and internationally. Through this ambitious program, the agency aims to transform Nigeria into a global talent factory, supplying skilled professionals to meet international demands.
Inuwa’s vision for this initiative is clear. He emphasized that the initiative is also tailored to significantly augment productivity by empowering citizens with digital capabilities.
By investing in digital skills development, NITDA is not only addressing the local skills gap but also positioning Nigerian talent on the global stage. This initiative is a bold step towards bridging the talent deficit and ensuring that Nigeria remains competitive in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
Beyond skills development, Inuwa has also championed numerous projects to bolster Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. Under his leadership, NITDA has rolled out several key initiatives aimed at enhancing the country’s digital capabilities. These include the deployment of broadband infrastructure, the establishment of tech hubs, and support for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Inuwa’s strategic focus on infrastructure is designed to create an enabling environment for digital businesses to thrive. He further noted that digital is no longer a luxury but a necessity for economic progress and the importance of robust digital infrastructure in driving economic development. By improving connectivity and access to digital tools, NITDA is laying the foundation for a vibrant digital economy.
Kashifu Inuwa’s efforts at NITDA are a testament to the transformative power of technology in driving economic growth. His forward-thinking approach and commitment to digital innovation are positioning Nigeria as a leading player in the global digital economy. Through initiatives like the ‘3 Million Tech Talent’ program and the enhancement of digital infrastructure, Inuwa is not only fostering economic growth but also creating opportunities for Nigerians to thrive in the digital age.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of the global economy, the role of technology will be increasingly pivotal. Under Inuwa’s leadership, NITDA is not only responding to current challenges but also anticipating future needs, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the cutting edge of digital innovation.
Inuwa’s vision is clear: a digitally empowered Nigeria, capable of leveraging technology to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Through strategic investments and a relentless focus on innovation, he is unlocking new opportunities for growth and setting the stage for Nigeria’s digital renaissance.
