FEATURE: NITDA’s Strong Showing at GITEX Africa 2025
By Fatimah Yusuf Usman,
The dust has settled on GITEX Africa 2025, and Nigeria’s presence at the event is still being talked about. Held in the vibrant city of Marrakech, Morocco, from April 14th to 16th, this year’s edition of GITEX Africa was more than just another tech event—it was a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s growing digital ecosystem.
At the heart of this extraordinary showcase was the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), whose commanding presence sent a clear message to the world: Nigeria is not just participating in the digital revolution; it is leading it.
Nigeria’s participation was nothing short of spectacular. NITDA, spearheading the country’s tech presence, not only exhibited Nigeria’s groundbreaking innovations but also placed the spotlight firmly on the country’s vision for the future of digital transformation.
In collaboration with other national stakeholders, the agency helped to present Nigeria’s vibrant tech sector to over 1,400 exhibitors from 130 countries, including 400 top investors managing a collective $250 billion in assets.
But Nigeria’s most significant contribution came from its delegation of 12 pioneering startups—each one a testament to the ingenuity and potential of the Nigerian tech landscape. Among these startups, companies working across AI, fintech, agritech, and smart solutions took center stage, showing off their innovative approaches to solving some of Africa’s most pressing problems.
The display of Nigeria’s homegrown talent and vision was nothing short of extraordinary. It wasn’t just about showcasing technology; it was about showcasing solutions that could change the course of Africa’s future. However, it wasn’t just the startups that made waves.
NITDA’s Director-General, Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, was a central figure throughout the event, driving discussions and fostering collaborations with key stakeholders. A particularly powerful moment came during a high-level conversation between Inuwa and cybersecurity giant Kaspersky.
This strategic dialogue focused on improving Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework—a critical area for any nation looking to grow digitally. The collaboration could prove transformative, as Kaspersky pledged its support in strengthening Nigeria’s defenses against the growing threat of cybercrime.
But what truly made NITDA’s participation in GITEX Africa 2025 stand out was the agency’s holistic approach to Nigeria’s digital future. NITDA wasn’t just talking about technology; they were laying the groundwork for lasting change. Whether it was advocating for policies that empower tech startups or pushing for the integration of AI into leadership strategies across Africa, NITDA’s influence was felt at every turn.
Their participation at the event was a bold affirmation of Nigeria’s role in shaping the continent’s digital destiny. Inuwa’s leadership throughout the event also emphasized the crucial role of digital education in Nigeria’s long-term strategy.
As the nation seeks to become a key exporter of tech talent, integrating digital literacy into the education system is no longer a luxury but a necessity. At GITEX, Inuwa made it clear that Nigeria is committed to not just consuming technology but creating it and preparing future generations to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
The event also offered a platform for Inuwa to engage in conversations about cybersecurity, particularly during the Counter Ransomware Initiative’s Crystal Ball Workshop. Nigeria’s proactive stance in joining the fight against ransomware showed its commitment to securing its digital future, making it clear that the country is prepared to confront and defeat the cyber threats that could hinder its growth.
As the event drew to a close, it was Nigeria’s startups that stole the show. Crop2Cash, a Nigerian agritech startup, was awarded The Young CEO Award, a significant recognition that came with a $5,000 prize. Another Nigerian startup, Vinsight, was named one of the top 10 finalists in the SUPERNOVA Special Awards, cementing Nigeria’s place at the cutting edge of Africa’s digital evolution.
Kashifu Inuwa expressed immense pride in these victories, highlighting how such recognitions underscore the potential and promise of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem on the global stage. GITEX Africa 2025 may have come to an end, but the impact of Nigeria’s participation will reverberate for years to come.
NITDA’s robust showing at the event proved one thing above all: Nigeria is ready to lead in the global digital economy. With its dynamic tech startups, forward-thinking leadership, and commitment to digital transformation, Nigeria is positioning itself not just as a player in Africa’s digital landscape but as a powerhouse shaping the future of the continent’s technology-driven growth.
Fatimah Yusuf Usman writes from PRNigeria Centre, Abuja. She can be reached via: [email protected].
