Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has laid the foundation for the $10.4 million Renewed Hope Startup Hub in Abuja, an innovation facility supported by the Japanese government to accelerate digital entrepreneurship, technological development and job creation among Nigerian youths.

The project, located in Wuye, Abuja, is being funded through a grant from the Japanese government, facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

The facility is designed to provide young innovators and emerging businesses with access to advanced technology, research facilities, hardware prototyping equipment, business incubation, mentorship and international partnerships.

Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony, the First Lady described the initiative as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to harness technology for economic diversification, youth empowerment and inclusive development.

She commended the Japanese government and JICA for supporting the project, describing the partnership as a demonstration of international confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy and the innovative potential of its youthful population.

According to her, the startup hub aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its emphasis on entrepreneurship, digital skills, sustainable employment and economic opportunities for young Nigerians.

Mrs Tinubu urged NITDA to ensure that the facility, when completed, would serve innovators from across the country rather than being restricted to entrepreneurs in Abuja.

“To our young innovators, this Startup Hub is yours. You can arrive here with a sketch and leave with a working prototype that takes you into the global market space,” she declared.

She expressed optimism that the facility would become a platform for transforming innovative ideas into commercially viable products and globally competitive enterprises.

The First Lady emphasised the importance of creating an enabling environment where young Nigerians could acquire practical skills, access modern equipment, collaborate with industry experts and develop solutions to pressing societal challenges.

In his opening remarks, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, described the project as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and a demonstration of the growing partnership between Nigeria and Japan in digital transformation.

Inuwa said the facility would provide opportunities for young entrepreneurs to transform creativity into sustainable businesses, develop indigenous technological solutions and compete in international markets.

He disclosed that NITDA’s innovation programmes had supported more than **995 startups and contributed to the creation of over 7,596 jobs within three year, reflecting the agency’s commitment to entrepreneurship and digital economic growth.

According to him, more than 300 companies had benefited from NITDA’s digital export acceleration programme, while 1,752 women had participated in the agency’s We Elevate initiative.

The NITDA chief explained that the agency had expanded its innovation programmes beyond major commercial centres to ensure that entrepreneurs in underserved communities could participate in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

He cited the I-Hatch programme, implemented in collaboration with JICA, as an example of how targeted partnerships could strengthen innovation capacity nationwide.

Inuwa disclosed that the programme began in 2023 as a pilot involving eight startups in Abuja before expanding to three states in 2024.

Between 2025 and early 2026, the initiative trained 333 startups across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, alongside 74 innovation hub managers.

He said the expansion demonstrated the importance of decentralising innovation opportunities and strengthening local ecosystems capable of supporting emerging businesses.

The Director-General further revealed that the Federal Government was working towards ensuring that every state had at least two functional innovation hubs where young entrepreneurs could access incubation programmes, mentorship and facilities for developing innovative products and services.

On women’s participation in the digital economy, Inuwa highlighted the Ignite Her initiative, which had trained 224 women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises.

He disclosed that 12 participants were sponsored to Japan for further exposure and business development opportunities, while one beneficiary subsequently secured a grant worth $500,000.

According to him, the outcomes of these programmes contributed to Japan’s decision to support the establishment of the Renewed Hope Startup Hub with a $10.4 million grant.

Inuwa also announced plans for a **$50 million seed funding facility for Nigerian startups**, being developed by JICA in collaboration with the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

He said the funding arrangement had received the necessary approvals and had been signed off, with disbursement expected to commence once the facility became operational.

The proposed fund is intended to address financing constraints confronting early-stage businesses and provide capital to entrepreneurs with promising technological solutions.

The NITDA Director-General explained that access to financing remained a major challenge for startups, particularly those developing innovative products that required substantial investment before commercialisation.

He added that Nigeria and Japan were exploring the establishment of a structured talent pipeline to connect Nigeria’s growing pool of technology professionals with opportunities in Japan.

According to him, the proposed arrangement would leverage Nigeria’s youthful workforce and Japan’s demand for skilled professionals while strengthening knowledge exchange and international collaboration.

Also speaking, Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Hideo Suzuki, described the startup hub as part of a broader Japanese development cooperation strategy aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.

Suzuki explained that Japan’s intervention was built around three complementary priorities: institutional capacity development, access to early-stage financing and investment in innovation infrastructure.

He said Japanese experts had been working with NITDA and other relevant Nigerian institutions to strengthen policies, regulatory frameworks and institutional arrangements supporting technology entrepreneurship.

The ambassador also disclosed plans for an onshore startup investment fund backed by approximately $21 million in Japanese grant assistance.

According to him, the proposed investment mechanism is designed to attract additional resources from Nigerian businesses and international development partners while ensuring that funds are invested within Nigeria’s domestic economy.

Suzuki said the Renewed Hope Startup Hub would provide entrepreneurs with modern digital fabrication equipment, collaborative workspaces and facilities for developing practical technological solutions.

He identified healthcare, education and agriculture among the sectors expected to benefit from innovations emerging from the facility.

The ambassador explained that Japan’s approach to startup development emphasised long-term sustainability, industrial capacity and solutions to social challenges rather than short-term financial returns.

He described the initiative as part of Japan’s wider commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification, digital transformation and industrial development.

Suzuki further disclosed that Nigeria had been selected as Japan’s first global partner under its new development cooperation framework, known as the **Co-Creation for Common Agenda initiative**.

He said the framework would provide opportunities for deeper cooperation between both countries in addressing development challenges through technology, innovation and institutional partnerships.

In his remarks, JICA’s representative in Nigeria, Ishigame Keiji, said the startup hub would create an enabling environment for entrepreneurs to develop, test and commercialise innovative ideas.

Keiji explained that the facility’s manufacturing-oriented infrastructure would support collaboration among government institutions, universities, research organisations, private companies and emerging entrepreneurs.

He noted that access to prototyping equipment and technical expertise would enable startups to move beyond conceptual ideas towards developing functional products capable of addressing practical challenges.

According to him, the initiative is expected to contribute to local industrial development, encourage technology transfer and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to produce innovative solutions for domestic and international markets.

The JICA representative stressed that sustained institutional collaboration would be essential to achieving the project’s objectives.

He expressed confidence in the ability of Nigerian innovators to develop scalable solutions capable of addressing social and economic challenges while creating opportunities for employment and business growth.

The foundation-laying ceremony attracted government officials, representatives of the Japanese government, development partners and stakeholders in Nigeria’s technology and innovation ecosystem.

Upon completion, NITDA is expected to oversee the operation of the Renewed Hope Startup Hub, with continued technical support from JICA.

The facility will provide infrastructure for business incubation, product development, research collaboration, mentorship and international partnerships, particularly for entrepreneurs seeking to transform innovative ideas into commercially viable enterprises.

The project represents another component of Nigeria-Japan cooperation in digital innovation, complementing existing initiatives in startup development, entrepreneurship training, access to finance and technology skills acquisition.

For NITDA, the hub is expected to strengthen efforts to build a more inclusive innovation ecosystem in which young Nigerians, regardless of their location or economic background, can access opportunities to develop technological solutions, establish sustainable businesses and participate in the global digital economy.

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The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in Abuja, covered the grant contract for the “Project for the Development of Supporting Environment for Startups Addressing Social Challenges.”

Under the arrangement, JICA will provide $14m in grant support, while NSIA will contribute up to $20m, forming part of the $50m fund. The vehicle will combine financial backing with technical assistance to help startups refine products, scale operations, and expand into new markets.

NSIA CEO Aminu Umar-Sadiq described the initiative as transformative: “By providing early-stage ventures in high-impact sectors with the capital and support they need to grow, we are enabling innovators to tackle some of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.”

Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo, said the project represents Japan’s first-ever implementation of a development model globally that incorporates private capital. “Interest in Tokyo is very high, and the Embassy has been eagerly awaiting the launch of this project,” he noted.

He explained that the initiative is part of Japan’s broader cooperation package, aiming to achieve development goals through “co-creation of social value” while mobilising private finance alongside official development assistance.

The fund is expected to create jobs, improve livelihoods, and contribute to sustainable economic development across Nigeria. Preparations are underway to operationalise the fund and build a pipeline of high-impact startups ready for investment.

Hideo added, “The Government of Japan hopes this new project will take root in Nigeria and bear fruit swiftly,” reinforcing the partnership’s long-term vision for inclusive growth and innovation.

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The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE has said Nigeria’s collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is propelling the nation’s technology innovation and startup ecosystem to new heights.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Survey on the Digitisation of Supply Chains in Small-Scale Nigerian Farms, organised by AGROVESTO, a JICA-funded Agritech startup and beneficiary of NITDA’s iHatch Incubation Programme Cohort 2, the NITDA boss who was represented by Dr Amina Sambo-Magaji, Deputy Director, e-Government and Digital Economy Development Department, described the partnership as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.

He noted that Nigeria now boasts as one of Africa’s most vibrant startup ecosystems, with young entrepreneurs using technology to solve local challenges with global implications. “Nigeria is home to over 200 fintech startups revolutionising financial services, fostering inclusion, and empowering millions,” Inuwa said by citing success stories such as Paystack, Flutterwave, and Paga.

Highlighting the role of iHatch, a joint incubation and acceleration programme by NITDA and JICA, Inuwa explained that it provides training, mentorship, seed funding, and ecosystem support to budding startups across different sectors.

He further emphasised that the recently enacted Nigeria Startup Act has created incentives to lower barriers for innovators.

These include tax holidays, easier registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), government-backed grants, innovation hubs, technology parks, and regulatory sandboxes.

According to the NITDA DG, these interventions are designed to stimulate investment, nurture talent, and position Nigerian startups for global competitiveness. He urged stakeholders, from government to investors, to continue supporting the ecosystem.

“Through strategic partnerships such as the one we enjoy with JICA, we are laying a strong foundation for sustainable growth, inclusive development, and global competitiveness. Nigerian innovations will not only solve local challenges but inspire the world,” he concluded.

Also speaking, Chief Representative of JICA in Nigeria, Mr. Ishigame Kenji commended AGROVESTO for their dedication, creativity and pro-activeness in implementing the project, urging them to expand the initiative to reach more farmers across Nigeria.

Earlier in his opening remarks, AGROVESTO Co-founder and CEO, Bayo Adewoye commended Nigerian farmers for their hard work and contribution to national food security.

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AGROVESTO, a fast-rising agritech startup and graduate of the iHatch Incubation Programme’s second cohort, has released findings from a groundbreaking survey centered on the digitization of agricultural supply chains in Nigeria. The survey, conducted in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), explores the transformative potential of digital tools for smallholder farmers across the country.

The initiative aims to address longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s agricultural sector chief among them inefficient logistics, post-harvest losses, and market inaccessibility by empowering farmers through technology-driven supply chain solutions.

Speaking at the launch of AGROVESTO’s digital agriculture platform, the Director General of NITDA, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, who was represented by Dr. Amina Sambo-Magaji, reiterated NITDA’s strategic mission to accelerate Nigeria’s digital future. “Collaboration with partners like JICA is key to driving capacity building, startup incubation, and vital resource access for innovators nationwide,” she said.

The event, which spotlighted AGROVESTO as a prime success story, also reaffirmed the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI)’s commitment to building an inclusive digital economy. Dr. Sambo-Magaji highlighted that such platforms exemplify NITDA’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and enabling environment where government backed innovation becomes a launchpad for digital excellence across all sectors.

She further stressed that digitizing agricultural supply chains presents a sustainable solution to food security and economic empowerment. “Our survey findings show that digital interventions are reducing bottlenecks in farm-to-market logistics, expanding access to finance, and improving the livelihood of small-scale farmers,” she noted.

Dr. Sambo-Magaji also highlighted the broader context of Nigeria’s tech-driven growth. “The country’s startup ecosystem is among the most vibrant in Africa, driven by youth-led innovation in sectors such as fintech, agritech, and health tech,” she stated.

Nigeria’s fintech sector, home to over 200 active startups including global names like Paystack, Flutterwave, and Paga, serves as a blueprint for success in other sectors. These companies have not only attracted global investment but also transformed access to financial services for millions. The acquisition of Paystack by Stripe for over $200 million was cited as a testament to the global competitiveness of Nigerian innovation.

Central to the country’s innovation agenda is the *iHatch programme* a joint initiative between NITDA and JICA. This incubation programme equips startups with training, mentorship, seed funding, and access to key networks and innovation hubs.

As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, AGROVESTO’s efforts backed by robust institutional support are paving the way for a more resilient, efficient, and inclusive agricultural sector. The survey marks a critical step in shaping policy, investment, and innovation strategies that will benefit Nigeria’s smallholder farmers and the nation’s economy at large.

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Nigerian women are gaining global recognition for their groundbreaking contributions to technology and innovation at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).

The conference, held in Yokohama under the theme “Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” provided a platform for leaders and investors to strengthen partnerships and explore new avenues for Africa’s growth.

At a key session on the future of Africa’s startup ecosystems, three Nigerian women entrepreneurs — finalists from the IgniteHerBootcamp for Women Entrepreneurs — pitched innovative solutions before Japanese investors and global stakeholders. The bootcamp, jointly organized by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), seeks to dismantle barriers women face in the tech industry, particularly in funding and mentorship.

Among the presenters was Kemisola Bolarinwa, Founder of Nextwear Technologies, who unveiled an AI-powered device designed for the early detection of breast abnormalities. Her innovation tackles a pressing health challenge and underscores the potential of technology-driven solutions in public health.

Anita Ngeri, founder of Nibi’s Tech, showcased her educational technology platform that equips young Nigerians, particularly in the Niger Delta, with digital skills such as coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and web design. Her initiative aims to close the digital divide and prepare the next generation of innovators.

Also featured was Odion Ikyo, Co-Founder of PrimeSafePathSolutions, who pitched MaternalRecord Pro — Nigeria’s first AI-powered, multi-tenant data automation system for Primary Healthcare Centres. The platform is designed to replace paper-based health records, enable real-time data capture, and help reduce maternal mortality through early risk detection.

Their participation highlighted Nigeria’s growing tech ecosystem and the crucial role women-led startups play in shaping Africa’s future. The initiative aligns with JICA’s Project NINJA, which promotes robust startup ecosystems, expands funding access, and strengthens ties between African startups and Japanese investors.

NITDA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and fostering international collaborations to drive inclusive digital growth. The agency emphasized that empowering women in technology is not only a matter of equity but also a strategic driver of national development.

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The project comprises two key components. The first is the development of a cutting-edge Start-Up Hub, valued at $9.9 million, to be implemented by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The second component, worth $21 million, is the Project for the Development of a Supporting Environment for Social Start-ups in Nigeria, which will be executed by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

Aimed at fostering innovation and supporting emerging enterprises, the project will deliver a world-class facility equipped with advanced digital technologies and collaborative workspaces. It also seeks to strengthen linkages across the start-up ecosystem, promoting job creation, industrial diversification, and solutions to social challenges through innovation.

The funds—allocated with provisions for contingencies—will be disbursed in phases through 2030 and will cover infrastructure development, equipment procurement, and consultancy services.

Senator Atiku Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, signed the agreement on behalf of Nigeria, while Mr. Yuzurio Susumu, Chief Representative of JICA Nigeria Office, signed on behalf of the Japanese government.

“This project marks a significant milestone in Nigeria-Japan bilateral relations,” Senator Bagudu said. “It reflects our shared vision for innovation-driven economic growth and youth empowerment.”

According to the agreement, Japanese suppliers will be prioritized for primary contracts, though products and services may also be sourced locally.

NITDA, as the project’s lead implementing agency, will oversee key responsibilities, including securing regulatory approvals, providing utility infrastructure, and ensuring environmental compliance and safety during the construction phase.

Speaking on the development, NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, praised the agency’s ongoing partnership with JICA, particularly through the iHatch initiative, which has already generated over 117 direct jobs and more than 370 indirect jobs.

“We are now expanding this initiative across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” Inuwa noted. “Through a six-month incubation program, iHatch equips startups with the tools and mentorship they need to launch market-ready products, leveraging JICA’s global expertise.”

Inuwa also highlighted joint efforts to strengthen ties between Nigerian and Japanese tech ecosystems by facilitating exchange programs and sponsoring Nigerian startups to attend international events in Japan.

Last month, both agencies launched the IgniteHer Entrepreneurship Bootcamp in Abuja—an intensive five-day training designed to empower women entrepreneurs and promote an inclusive digital economy.

Once completed, the Abuja Start-Up Hub is expected to become a nucleus for creative entrepreneurs and digital innovators, solidifying the city’s position as a technology powerhouse in West Africa.

Implementation of the project begins in April 2025 and will run through December 2030. It aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reinforcing Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s digital transformation.

In line with JICA’s operational framework, monthly progress updates will be submitted, and a comprehensive final report is expected within six months after project completion.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is intensifying efforts to cultivate impactful global partnerships aimed at fostering inclusive growth, driving innovation, and accelerating technological advancement across Nigeria. This strategic direction was highlighted during a recent meeting held at NITDA Headquarters.

The NITDA Director General, NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa , CCIE who joined the engagement virtually due to a scheduled follow-up meeting with Google in the United States regarding investments in national sovereign infrastructure was was ably represented by the Director of the Information Technology Infrastructural Solutions Department, Mr. Oladejo Olawumi.

The meeting focused on discussions with Mr. Hiro Mashita, the founder of SGgrow, a firm committed to identifying and supporting promising Nigerian startup investment opportunities and connecting them with global ecosystems.

Inuwa highlighted NITDA’s proactive approach to international collaboration, emphasising the Agency’s strong existing relationship with the Japanese government through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

He announced an upcoming signing ceremony for a significant innovation project being established in Abuja with JICA’s support adding that there is ongoing partnership with the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to establish a dedicated fund.

While noting that the success of the collaboration with JICA is the iHatch initiative, a co-designed idea incubation program, the DG stated that “We have been collaborating with them on so many initiatives like iHatch. The pilot we did resulted in creating over 117 direct jobs and more than 370 indirect jobs, and now we are working together with them to expand it to all 36 states and the FCT. The initiative provides Nigerian startups with six months of incubation, leveraging JICA’s expertise and resources to develop market-ready products”.

He added that, “NITDA and JICA are actively working to bridge the Nigerian and Japanese tech ecosystems, facilitating networking opportunities and sponsoring Nigerian startups to participate in activities in Japan.”

Inuwa affirmed that SGgrow’s objectives strongly align with NITDA’s mandate to digitally empower Nigeria through inclusive technology and innovation. “Your presentation perfectly aligns with our mandate and what we do as an Agency,” he stated, emphasising the Agency’s vision of leveraging technology across all sectors to drive national prosperity and inclusivity. He stressed the crucial role of a robust startup ecosystem in achieving this vision.

NITDA is actively building a repository of labeled and compliant startups to enhance transparency and facilitate potential government incentives, including matching funding through collaborations. The agency is also developing an investment framework, including efforts with Google to build vital digital sovereign infrastructure.

The NITDA boss expressed NITDA’s keen interest in exploring a collaborative framework with SGgrow, potentially involving their existing partnership with JICA. “We can explore how we can work together to build a framework; maybe even to work with JICA to have strong participation from the Japanese government, startups, and other investors. For me, it is more about cooperation than competition,”he disclosed.

Earlier, in his statement, Mr. Mashita of SGgrow articulated his company’s mission to identify and support promising Nigerian startups, providing them with opportunities for growth and exposure. He highlighted their long-term investment approach and belief in Nigeria’s potential as an economic giant, aiming to serve as a key liaison between Nigeria and Japan.

He proposed exploring potential joint projects, enhancing support for Nigerian startups, and examining the possibilities for stock exchange effects within the Nigerian startup ecosystem. He also underscored the importance of intergovernmental relationships in fostering a conducive investment environment.

This engagement underscores NITDA’s commitment to seeking and fostering international collaborations that inject expertise, investment, and opportunities into Nigeria’s burgeoning digital economy, ultimately driving inclusive growth and technological advancement for the nation.

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The IgniteHer Bootcamp, a groundbreaking initiative by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), concluded on Friday, March 7, after five days of intensive training aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs. The program, which brought together 90 female entrepreneurs, focused on equipping participants with essential digital skills, business strategies, and mentorship opportunities to scale their ventures and contribute to economic growth.

Held as part of NITDA’s commitment to fostering gender inclusivity and digital transformation, the bootcamp addressed systemic barriers that often hinder women’s participation in entrepreneurship.

Through expert-led sessions, hands-on learning, and real-world case studies, participants gained practical insights into business development, financial management, and the use of technology to drive growth.

Tech Digest reports that the bootcamp kicked off with a deep dive into gender disparities in business, exploring challenges such as funding gaps and societal biases. Participants were equipped with strategies to overcome these obstacles, setting the tone for the days ahead. The second day focused on business planning, with sessions on the Lean Business Model Canvas, break-even analysis, and setting SMART goals to help participants develop structured business plans.

Digital literacy took center stage on the third day, as participants learned about cloud storage, online communication, internet safety, and financial management. Practical workshops on digital tools for content creation, bookkeeping, and business management provided hands-on experience. The fourth day emphasized digital transformation, with entrepreneurs exploring how to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies to scale their businesses. Topics included digital branding, marketing, and tools for operational efficiency.

The final day featured a panel discussion with industry experts, including a business hub manager, an entrepreneur, and a venture capitalist. Moderated by an ecosystem accelerator, the session offered insights into business growth, funding opportunities, and overcoming entrepreneurial challenges. Participants also engaged in an open discussion to reflect on their learning and plan their next steps.

Participants praised the bootcamp for its practical approach and transformative impact. Imaobong Edukere, one of the attendees, described the experience as life-changing. “The IgniteHer Bootcamp has been an incredibly transformative experience for me. It’s my first time being in a strong network of like-minded women entrepreneurs and learning from their knowledge. I now feel more prepared to implement what I’ve learned and make a lasting impact in society,” she said.

Hadiza Isah Mohammed, another participant, shared how the program reignited her entrepreneurial spirit. “I was at the point of dropping my dreams because everything seemed not to work, but I’ve been ignited and ready to continue my journey. Kudos to the organizers,” she said.

The bootcamp concluded with an announcement of a unique opportunity for select participants to travel to Japan in August 2025 for a startup event. Organized by JICA, the event will enable Nigerian entrepreneurs to network with Japanese companies and explore potential partnerships. Participants were encouraged to apply their learnings by submitting pitch decks or business plans for consideration.

The Director General of NITDA, Mallam Kashifu Inuwa emphasized the agency’s commitment to supporting women-led businesses, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for economic growth. “NITDA is ready to handhold these businesses to make an impact,” he said.

The IgniteHer Bootcamp has set a new benchmark for empowering women entrepreneurs in Nigeria. By providing access to cutting-edge tools, expert mentorship, and a supportive network, the program has equipped women to thrive in the digital economy. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants underscores the bootcamp’s success in bridging the gender gap and fostering sustainable growth.

As Nigeria continues to push for greater gender inclusivity in business and technology, initiatives like the IgniteHer Bootcamp are paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future. With the skills and confidence gained, these 90 women entrepreneurs are poised to drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic development.

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In a bid to bolster women’s entrepreneurship in Nigeria, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has kicked off the “IgniteHer” Entrepreneurship Bootcamp in Abuja, a five-day intensive program designed to empower and uplift women entrepreneurs across the nation.

Speaking during the launch of the programme, the NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE represented by the Special Adviser on Strategic Partnerships, Iklima Musa, emphasised the critical role of the programme in advancing gender equality, pointing out how it fosters economic inclusion, innovation, and digital transformation.

He said, “as we celebrate the globally recognised International Women’s Day/month, we are reminded that empowering women is not just about equity it is about unlocking the full potential of our societies. The theme of this year’s celebration resonated deeply with the mission of the Bootcamp, which is to empower women entrepreneurs for a brighter future.”

He extended his appreciation to JICA for their unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and sustainable development in Nigeria, noting that the collaboration exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in driving meaningful change.

While quoting Ravi Shankar’s sentiment regarding women’s vital role in society, Inuwa said “Women shape our world, drive innovation, foster inclusivity, and inspire future generations. It is in this spirit that the IgniteHer Bootcamp is aptly themed ‘Empowering Women Entrepreneurs for a Brighter Future.”

He explained that the Bootcamp is designed to address the unique challenges women face in entrepreneurship, including gender gaps in digital literacy and limited access to financial resources. Over the next five days, participants will gain foundational business skills, scaling strategies, sustainability practices, and strategic planning tools.

“At NITDA, we recognise that empowering women in business is a strategic imperative for national development. Women entrepreneurs are key drivers of economic growth, job creation, and technological innovation,” Inuwa noted.

He expressed gratitude to the partners, mentors, and facilitators for their dedication and encouraged them to sustain their commitments to empowering women and promoting inclusive economic growth.

Inuwa encouraged them to embrace the experience with an open mind, a spirit of collaboration, and a determination to excel.

He said, “This Bootcamp is your opportunity to refine your skills, expand your horizons, and connect with mentors and peers who will support your journey.”

“The future belongs to those who dare to dream, innovate, and take bold steps toward their goals. This is your moment to shine,  he added.”

In his remarks, the JICA’s representative Nao Fuwa, expressed his delight at the partnership and the opportunity it presented to Nigerian women. According to him, “this is a great opportunity for women.”

Fuwa encouraged the women entrepreneurs to fully participate in the Bootcamp, emphasising the importance of active engagement urging them to “ask questions, be interactive, and enjoy the event.”

He further stressed the broader impact of the program, stating, “this event will not only shape you, but will shape the vision of Nigeria’s economy.”

The “IgniteHer” Bootcamp aims to be a catalyst for sustainable and transformative change, measured by the tangible impact it creates in the lives and communities of the participants. The program will focus on bridging the structural barriers that women entrepreneurs face, fostering a more inclusive and equitable digital economy in Nigeria.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has announced the launch of iHatch Cohort 4, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at accelerating the growth of Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. Set to run from October 2024 to January 2025, the program will provide targeted support to 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs across Nigeria.

This initiative is part of NITDA’s Digital Economy Policy, which aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. It focuses on fostering economic diversification, creating jobs, and driving Nigeria’s digital economy by empowering startups with tailored mentorship, training, and investment readiness.

Building the Future of Entrepreneurship
The iHatch Cohort 4 program is uniquely designed to benefit both startups and innovation hubs. Startups will receive the tools and mentorship needed to refine business models, develop scalable products, and connect with potential investors.

Meanwhile, innovation hubs will enhance their capacity to serve as sustainable incubators for local entrepreneurs, ensuring long-term ecosystem growth.

“iHatch Cohort 4 will accelerate the growth of the startup ecosystem across Nigeria by equipping innovators with the knowledge, resources, and funding they need to turn their ideas into impactful businesses,” said Victoria Fabunmi, National Coordinator of the Office of Nigerian Digital Innovation.

“Through our partnership with JICA and local innovation hubs, we are building a more inclusive and vibrant digital economy in Nigeria.”

Programme Highlights
The program’s comprehensive features include:

Nationwide Reach: Support for startups across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Sectoral Focus: Special attention to startups in fintech, agritech, healthtech, logistics, edtech, and civic tech, with tailored support for innovation and scalability.

Capacity Building for Hubs: Training for innovation hubs to enhance mentorship, facilities, networking, and funding access.

Demo Day and Investment Opportunities: A platform for startups to pitch their ideas to investors and stakeholders, aiming for funding and partnerships.

Targeted Outcomes
The program has ambitious goals, including:

• Incorporation of 90% of participating startups with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
• Development of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) by 80% of startups.
• Securing investments for 30% of startups.
• Creation of 1,000 direct and indirect jobs.
• Sustainability for 70% of startups six months post-program.

A Transformational Initiative for Nigeria
iHatch Cohort 4 is a key step in actualizing Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS).

By focusing on innovation-driven enterprises (IDEs), the program aims to address local challenges while boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness in the digital sector. It also complements the Nigerian Startup Act by fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurs.

Call to Action
Applications for startups and innovation hubs are now open! Innovators and ecosystem builders are encouraged to apply at programs.startup.gov.ng/ihatch and follow NITDANigeria and ONDINigeria on social media for updates.

About NITDA
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is committed to driving Nigeria’s IT sector through policies, standards, and initiatives that foster a sustainable digital economy.

About JICA
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) supports global development through financial and technical assistance, with a mission to promote economic growth and sustainability worldwide.

For media inquiries, contact:
Mrs. Hadiza Umar, fnipr, f.apra
Director, Corporate Communications and Media Relations, NITDA.

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