NITDA Urges Youths to Develop Indigenous AI Solutions

NITDA Urges Youths to Develop Indigenous AI Solutions

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called on Nigerian youths to take the lead in creating locally driven artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to tackle the nation’s socio-economic challenges.

This charge was delivered during an AI Hackathon held in Abuja, organised by NITDA in collaboration with VibeCode Africa. The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, represented by the Acting Director of Digital Literacy and Capacity Building, Dr. Ahmed Tambuwal, who spoke through Mrs. Udoka Mannie, highlighted the immense potential of Nigeria’s youthful population in driving innovation and digital transformation.

He noted that the hackathon created a valuable platform for participants from diverse fields to collaborate and design practical AI solutions tailored to local realities. With over 60 percent of Nigerians under the age of 25, Inuwa emphasized that the country stands in a strong position to leverage emerging technologies for growth.

According to him, artificial intelligence is already transforming economies, governance systems, and societies worldwide. He stressed that Nigeria must decide whether to actively shape AI for national development or remain dependent on foreign innovations.

Reaffirming NITDA’s mandate, Inuwa stated that the agency is committed to regulating and advancing information technology in a way that drives national development rather than passive consumption. He added that the Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Department is focused on equipping citizens with the skills needed to thrive in the global digital economy.

He further highlighted NITDA’s flagship Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative, which aims to equip millions of Nigerians with essential digital skills and supports the Federal Government’s goal of achieving 95 percent digital literacy by 2030.

Moving beyond basic literacy, Inuwa encouraged participants to build real-world solutions, emphasizing that the ability to create technology is more impactful than simply using it. He urged them to prioritise innovation that delivers tangible impact rather than focusing solely on recognition or rewards.
He identified key sectors where AI can make a difference, including healthcare delivery in rural areas, public service efficiency, agriculture, education, financial inclusion, and the fight against misinformation.

The NITDA boss also underscored the importance of ethical considerations, data protection, and inclusivity in AI development, stressing that responsible innovation must go hand in hand with technological advancement.

He commended VibeCode Africa for its partnership, noting that such collaborations are essential for scaling innovation across the country. Encouraging teamwork and experimentation, he expressed confidence that Nigeria’s AI future will be shaped by local innovators.

“The future of AI in Nigeria will not be imported—it will be built by Nigerians,” he affirmed.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the founder of VibeCode Africa, Lola Adey, urged participants to harness AI as a tool for solving real-life challenges. She stressed that Africa must transition from being a talent source for foreign economies to becoming a global hub for innovation.

Adey explained that, unlike previous editions, this year’s hackathon encouraged participants to identify and solve problems within their own communities rather than being assigned specific sectors. She challenged them to reflect on everyday issues such as electricity shortages, insecurity, and gaps in social services, and to develop solutions rooted in lived experiences.

She added that the initiative aims not only to foster discussions but also to create opportunities for entrepreneurship, employment, and global engagement. With AI tools now widely accessible, she encouraged young innovators to take initiative without waiting for external support.

Adey concluded by advising participants to remain focused, collaborative, and open-minded, noting that the event could open doors to future partnerships, investments, and career opportunities.