The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has declared that Nigeria is ready to lead in the future economy.
Speaking at the GITEX Nigeria conference in Lagos with the theme ”Forging The Rise Of Digital Nigeria” Inuwa emphasized that the event is not just another conference, but a declaration of Nigeria’s readiness to lead in the future economy.
According to Inuwa, the future economy is no longer a science fiction, but a tangible reality that Nigeria is poised to shape.
He attributed the city’s emergence as a hub for innovation and technology to the government’s intentional policies, such as the cashless policy implemented in 2012, which mandated banks to digitalize their processes and spurred the growth of fintech solutions in the country.
“Nigeria and Lagos in particular, we are ready for that. And we welcome you all to Lagos. I want you to take a look around, to have the feel of Lagos, and also to experience the atmosphere. The energy is palpable, and the potential is boundless,” Inuwa said.
He highlighted the success of Nigeria’s fintech sector, noting that out of 8 or 9 unicorns in Africa, 5 originated from Nigeria.
This, he said, shows that the country’s potential is not limited to fintech, but can be replicated in other sectors such as agriculture, health, and security.
“While fintech is a rocket fuel in terms of innovation, we have boundless opportunities in other sectors like agriculture, health, and many more. Therefore, we need you to be part of that journey with us to see how we can build solutions that will solve problems in all these critical sectors,” Inuwa added.
The NITDA DG emphasized that Nigeria’s vision is clear, with a focus on economic diversification and inclusivity.
He invited investors to join Nigeria on this journey, highlighting the potential for social and economic impact.
“Our vision is clear. Our journey is set. And our resolve is stronger than ever. So please join us. Come and invest in Nigeria. Be part of this history. Because this is the only way you can make social and economic impact in your investment,” Inuwa said.
The GITEX Nigeria event is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s digital economy, providing opportunities for local startups to showcase their innovations, attract investment, and expand internationally.
With its focus on enablement, engagement, and knowledge, the event promises to ignite a new wave of growth and position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital renaissance .
Reporting by Chioma Ezike