NITDA Calls for Inclusive AI Ecosystem to Drive Nigeria’s Digital Economy

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has called for the development of an inclusive and innovation-driven artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation and position the country as a leader in responsible AI adoption.

In a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by the Director of Digital Development Services, Mr. Oladejo Olawumi, at the launch of the MSME AI Master Trainer Programme in Abuja, Inuwa said artificial intelligence presents enormous opportunities for economic growth, innovation and sustainable development.

The programme was organised by INNOPOWER in collaboration with the ECOWAS Small Business Coalition (ESBC) at the United Nations House, Abuja.

According to the NITDA boss, Nigeria is already taking deliberate steps to harness AI through the implementation of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which focuses on developing AI infrastructure, strengthening the innovation ecosystem, expanding AI adoption across key sectors and promoting responsible AI governance.

He stressed that Nigeria’s ambition goes beyond adopting emerging technologies, noting that the country must develop indigenous AI solutions capable of addressing both national and global challenges.

Inuwa also highlighted the need to build sovereign digital infrastructure, preserve indigenous languages within AI systems and expand digital literacy to ensure Nigerians from all parts of the country can participate in the digital economy.

He further emphasised that collaboration between government, academia, industry, startups and development partners remains essential for building a resilient and globally competitive AI ecosystem.

The NITDA Director-General commended INNOPOWER for bringing together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to advance dialogue on responsible artificial intelligence, innovation and collaboration.

He added that such partnerships are critical to unlocking the full potential of AI and driving Nigeria’s digital transformation in line with the country’s broader vision for sustainable economic growth.