By Chimezie Godfrey
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called on stakeholders to embrace innovation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Speaking at the Port Harcourt Tech Expo 2026 in Rivers State, the Director-General of NITDA, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, represented by the Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, Dr. Aristotle Onumo, said Nigeria’s future prosperity depends on technology, innovation and human capital development.
The event, themed “Syntropy: Collective Futures – Systems, Solutions, Synergy and Societies,” brought together policymakers, technology leaders, startups, investors and academics.
According to Abdullahi, the global digital economy offers opportunities for Nigeria to create jobs, attract investments and improve productivity through technologies such as AI, cloud computing, data analytics and cybersecurity.
”The future is not something we inherit; it is something we build. Nigeria’s greatest resource is not oil but its people. Our ability to develop digital talent, foster innovation, and create enabling ecosystems will determine our competitiveness in the digital age,” he said.
He urged stakeholders to leverage emerging technologies to drive economic diversification and sustainable development.
The NITDA DG said the agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) prioritises digital literacy, innovation, cybersecurity, infrastructure and inclusive growth.
He also called for stronger collaboration among government, academia, industry and development partners to unlock opportunities for Nigeria’s youthful population.
During the Expo, participants discussed startup development, innovation financing, technology adoption and entrepreneurship, while exploring ways to position the Niger Delta as a technology hub.
NITDA also highlighted its flagship initiatives, including the Digital Literacy for All programme, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, and programmes under the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation.
Stakeholders at the event pledged to deepen collaboration to create more opportunities for young Nigerians in the digital economy.
NITDA urges investment in AI, innovation for digital economy
