Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi: Spearheading Nigeria’s Digital Transformation
By Abbas Badmus
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has been a transformative force in Nigeria’s digital landscape since his appointment. Under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his visionary leadership and innovative strategies have steered the country towards a promising digital future. His leadership has positioned NITDA as a nexus of digital innovation and progress, making significant strides in promoting digital literacy, supporting startups, and fostering a culture of innovation.
Promoting Digital Literacy
Understanding that a tech-driven future relies on a digitally literate population, Kashifu has prioritized initiatives aimed at increasing digital literacy across Nigeria. Recognizing the disparities in digital access and knowledge, he has launched various programs to equip citizens with essential digital skills.
Recently, NITDA, in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, launched an initiative to train thirty million Nigerian youth. This significant move is part of the Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) pillar of “Foster Digital Literacy and Cultivate Talents.” The program aims to enhance digital literacy across the nation and align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to reform the economy and deliver sustained inclusive growth by leveraging digital literacy and cultivating a pool of tech talent.
The initiative focuses on practical training in key areas such as software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital marketing. Targeting thirty million Nigerian youths, including NYSC members, its goal is to equip them with the skills necessary for the digital economy by 2027. These initiatives range from community-based training sessions to partnerships with educational institutions to integrate technology into the curriculum.
One notable effort is the Digital Literacy and Skills Development Program, which has reached millions of Nigerians through NITDA’s 3MTT initiatives, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate and thrive in an increasingly digital world. By focusing on both urban and rural areas, Kashifu has ensured that the benefits of digital literacy are felt nationwide, bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusivity.
Supporting Startups and Entrepreneurs
Kashifu’s tenure has been marked by robust support for startups and entrepreneurs. Understanding that innovation is often driven by small, agile enterprises, he has implemented policies and programs to nurture this vital sector.
Through the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), NITDA has created a conducive environment for startups to flourish. This includes access to funding, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities that connect budding entrepreneurs with industry leaders and potential investors. Recently, the Federal Government, through NITDA, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to host the world’s largest technology fair, GITEX, for the first time in 2025.
Speaking on the significance of the MOU, Kashifu said, “Bringing GITEX to Nigeria will introduce the experience of the best tech conference to our country.”
Another flagship initiative by Abdullahi is the National Innovation Competition, which encourages young innovators to develop tech-based solutions to societal challenges. This competition has not only highlighted the ingenuity of Nigerian youth but has also provided winners with the resources and support needed to bring their ideas to fruition.
By fostering a startup-friendly ecosystem, Abdullahi is laying the groundwork for a thriving tech industry that can drive economic growth and job creation.
Fostering Digital Innovation
Digital innovation is at the heart of Kashifu’s vision for Nigeria’s digital future. He has spearheaded efforts to create an environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and experimentation.
Under his leadership, NITDA has established several innovation hubs across the country. These hubs serve as collaborative spaces where tech enthusiasts, developers, and entrepreneurs can come together to share ideas, develop new technologies, and create solutions to local and global challenges.
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Recently, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through NITDA, revealed plans to establish research centres with cutting-edge technologies across the country’s six geo-political zones. These centres will concentrate on innovations in fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain technology.
Kashifu outlined these focus areas at the IoT West Africa Conference, emphasizing that the research centres will go beyond AI, IoT, and blockchain to include unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), additive manufacturing, and robotics.
In addition to physical hubs, Abdullahi has championed the adoption of emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and IoT. By integrating these technologies into various sectors, NITDA is driving efficiencies, enhancing service delivery, and positioning Nigeria as a leader in tech innovation on the continent.
Fostering Efficient Partnerships and Collaborations
NITDA has recently collaborated with the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Educational Board (FCT-UBEB) to revolutionize the way young Nigerians engage with technology. This collaboration aims to equip them with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, made this known when he hosted a delegation from the Head-to-Head Debate Committee of FCT UBEB led by its Acting Executive Chairman, Dr. Alhassan Sule, at the Agency’s corporate headquarters in Abuja to discuss possible areas of collaboration.
Represented by the agency’s Director of the Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions (ITIS) department, Mr. Oladejo Olawumi, Kashifu stated that the collaboration aligns with a pillar of NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) 2024-2027, which is to foster digital literacy and cultivate talents.
In another bid to foster digital literacy and cultivate talent through collaboration, Kashifu emphasized the urgent need to review the existing school curriculum and develop a comprehensive one that incorporates digital skills at all educational levels. According to him, this aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to create millions of jobs by leveraging digital technologies and achieving a digital literacy rate of 70% by 2027.
He made these remarks during a meeting with the management team of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), led by its Executive Secretary, Professor Janaidu Ismail, at NITDA’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.
Kashifu’s continued efforts to implement the presidential priority areas, particularly focusing on education, health, and social investment by strengthening their capacities through digital innovation and inclusive access to technology, have led to collaborations with the Africa Centre of Excellence for Population Health and Policy (ACEPHAP). These collaborations aim to transform healthcare delivery in Nigeria through technological innovations.
During a visit by a delegation from ACEPHAP led by its director, Professor Hadiza Shehu Galadanci, Kashifu outlined a comprehensive plan to leverage technology as an enabler across all critical sectors in Nigeria, with a particular focus on healthcare. He emphasized that technology is not a standalone sector but an essential tool that enhances productivity and innovation across all sectors.
Recognitions and Awards
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi’s exceptional contributions to public service and digital innovation have not gone unnoticed. Recently, he was honored with the prestigious Award of Excellence in Public Service for Digital Innovation. This accolade is a testament to his tireless efforts and the transformative impact he has had on Nigeria’s technological landscape. It recognizes not only his achievements over the past year but also his commitment to driving sustained progress in the years to come.
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi’s first year under the current dispensation as the Director General of NITDA has been marked by significant achievements and a clear vision for Nigeria’s digital future. His initiatives in promoting digital literacy, supporting startups, and fostering innovation are paving the way for a technology-driven nation.
With his unwavering dedication and innovative approach, he is not only transforming Nigeria’s digital landscape but also empowering its citizens to thrive in the digital age. As the country continues on this path of technological advancement, the impact of his leadership will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.
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