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Nigeria’s technology regulator has called for stronger collaboration among startups, investors, researchers and industry stakeholders as it intensifies efforts to expand the country’s innovation ecosystem and accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) said partnerships involving government, academia and the private sector would be critical to transforming digital innovations into practical solutions that drive economic growth, create jobs and improve public services
The agency made the call at the 20th edition of the Nigeria Computer Society International Conference 2026 held in Jos, Plateau State, where stakeholders explored strategies for deploying technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing, cybersecurity and robotics to promote inclusive growth
Representing NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, the agency’s Director of Stakeholders Management and Partnerships, Dr Aristotle Onumo, said Nigeria’s digital future would depend on sustained investment in innovation, research, digital skills development and strategic partnerships
He said NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan focuses on expanding digital literacy, supporting research and development, strengthening cybersecurity and building innovation-driven ecosystems
“We are transforming Digital Nigeria into the nation’s foremost innovation platform where policymakers, investors, startups, researchers and technology companies can collaborate to accelerate economic growth and digital transformation,” Onumo said
The agency added that it is expanding opportunities for <a href="https://usglobalxpress.com/firstbank-unveils-%e2%82%a610m-grants-for-women-entrepreneurs-msme-africa/” title=”FirstBank Unveils ₦10m Grants For Women Entrepreneurs – MSME Africa”>entrepreneurs and technology startups through initiatives designed to encourage collaboration, investment and the development of locally built solutions
NITDA also urged innovators and startup founders attending the conference to participate in the upcoming Builders Summit, where locally developed technology solutions addressing national challenges will be showcased
The move comes as governments and businesses globally increase investments in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, as countries compete to build stronger digital economies and attract technology-driven investments
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who declared the conference open, said digital technology has become essential to modern governance and economic development
He said his administration has deployed digital solutions to improve public service delivery, increase internally generated revenue and modernise government processes
“Technology will also play a decisive role in transforming agriculture, improving productivity and strengthening food security,” Mutfwang said, urging participants to ensure discussions at the conference translate into practical outcomes
Nigeria Computer Society President, Prof Muhammad Sirajo, said the conference was designed to bring together policymakers, regulators, researchers and industry leaders to develop strategies for harnessing emerging technologies
Speaking on the theme, “Harnessing Digital Innovation and Emerging Technologies for Inclusive Growth and Economic Renaissance,” Sirajo identified artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing, cybersecurity and robotics as key technologies shaping future economies
He said Nigeria’s young population and growing digital ecosystem present an opportunity to build a globally competitive technology sector, provided investments in infrastructure, innovation and skills development remain priorities
The conference brought together government officials, technology professionals, academics, development partners and private-sector leaders to discuss policies and innovations expected to support Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda
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