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.

The post NSIA, JICA Launch $50m Fund for Nigerian Startups appeared first on Tech Digest News.

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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By Shuaib S. Agaka

At Technovate Fest 2024, Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), outlined Nigeria’s two-fold approach to adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI).

He emphasized NITDA’s commitment to both promoting AI adoption and ensuring its responsible and ethical use across various sectors. The approach involves, first, investing in capacity building to ensure AI literacy spreads throughout society, and second, developing regulatory frameworks that prioritize transparency, data privacy, and cybersecurity in AI development.

The landscape of AI adoption in Africa is diverse and evolving. Several countries have begun to recognize the transformative potential of AI, incorporating it into national strategies and private-sector innovation. Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Egypt are often seen as the continent’s forerunners in AI development, each taking unique approaches.

For example, South Africa has established several AI research hubs, focusing on using AI in areas like healthcare, agriculture, and fintech. Kenya, leveraging its strong digital innovation ecosystem, is using AI in mobile financial services and agriculture as well, while Egypt is integrating AI into public administration and education. Despite these advances, AI adoption remains uneven across the continent, largely due to varying levels of economic development and digital orientation.

Over the years, Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has adopted many strategies to foster AI adoption and the latest one in view is the “ two-fold approach”, with capacity building being one of its primary focuses. NITDA’s strategy aims to ensure that AI literacy spreads across various sectors of Nigerian society, from education and healthcare to finance and agriculture. This approach recognizes that without a workforce skilled in AI technologies, any nation will struggle to harness the potential of AI to drive economic growth and innovation.

Through strategic partnerships with educational institutions, tech hubs, and private sector organizations, NITDA is working to create a robust AI learning ecosystem. that involves upskilling the existing workforce, training young people in AI-related skills, and incorporating AI into formal education curricula.

One of the key programs under this initiative is NITDA’s continuation of collaboration with international organizations and companies to create training platforms and boot camps. Partnerships with companies like Google, Microsoft, JICA, and Bootcamp have facilitated AI training for students, entrepreneurs, and professionals in Nigeria. These programs focus on both the theoretical foundations of AI, such as machine learning algorithms and data science, and practical applications in local industries like agriculture and financial services. By aligning AI literacy with the needs of the local economy, NITDA ensures that the workforce is equipped with the skills required to drive AI adoption in Nigeria’s key sectors.

In addition to international partnerships, the agency also tends to continue to launch domestic initiatives to build AI capacity. These include organizing national hackathons, innovation competitions, and AI-focused conferences aimed at fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving.

Through these platforms, NITDA engages Nigerian youth and tech enthusiasts, encouraging them to develop AI-based solutions to local challenges. Such efforts contribute to a broader national objective of turning Nigeria into an AI innovation hub within Africa.

The second pillar of the strategy recognizes the rapid pace of AI development and the need to address the concerns about the ethical implications of AI, including issues of bias, discrimination, and most importantly, privacy violations.

The pillar involves developing robust regulatory frameworks that ensure AI development adheres to ethical standards. NITDA’s approach to AI regulation is grounded in the principles of transparency, data privacy, and cybersecurity, aiming to create an environment where AI technologies can thrive without compromising the rights and safety of individuals.

Additionally, in recent years, Nigeria has enacted the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), which governs the collection, storage, and use of personal data. As AI systems often rely on large datasets, ensuring that data privacy is upheld is crucial for maintaining public trust in AI technologies. NITDA has taken a proactive stance in enforcing the NDPR, with penalties for organizations that fail to comply with its provisions.

Compared to other African nations, Nigeria’s regulatory approach through NITDA, is relatively advanced. While countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt are also working on AI governance, their frameworks tend to focus more on fostering innovation and economic growth, with less emphasis on ethical regulation.

Nigeria, on the other hand, is placing equal weight on both innovation and ethical oversight, recognizing that responsible AI development is crucial for long-term societal trust.

The approach focuses on transparency, data privacy, and cybersecurity creating a more responsible and sustainable environment for AI development.

By incorporating ethical standards early on, Nigeria is attempting to prevent the pitfalls that unchecked AI can bring. This balanced approach positions Nigeria to maintain its leadership role in AI governance within Africa, particularly in terms of setting ethical standards that other countries may follow.

Moreover, Nigeria’s AI strategy is supported by strong government involvement, ensuring that policies align with the country’s broader economic and technological goals. NITDA’s role in coordinating AI-related programs and working with international tech companies gives Nigeria an edge over other African nations that lack centralized leadership in AI development. The agency’s ability to implement training programs, foster innovation hubs, and create partnerships with the private sector further strengthens Nigeria’s position as an emerging AI leader.

This coordinated approach ensures that AI development in Nigeria is both inclusive and strategic, enabling the country to build a sustainable AI ecosystem.

Another strength of Nigeria’s approach lies in its potential to democratize AI education and training due to its scale and ambition. South Africa and Egypt have similar programs focused on AI education and skills development, but Nigeria’s approach is unique in its integration of both grassroots initiatives and top-down policy support. For example, Kenya focuses on private-sector-driven AI training through startups and innovation hubs, while Nigeria’s government plays a more active role through NITDA, ensuring that AI education reaches a wider demographic.

No doubt, this comprehensive approach is intended to democratize access to AI literacy, particularly in underserved communities where digital education is often lacking. Such a widespread approach would allow Nigeria in due time, to produce a large, skilled AI workforce, giving it a competitive advantage in the long run.

Nigeria’s AI strategy has the potential to influence the future direction of AI governance in Africa. Its focus on ethical AI regulation sets it apart from other countries, positioning it as a leader in responsible AI development. In due time, Nigeria would become a model for how African countries can harness AI’s power while protecting their citizens’ rights and interests.

Shuaib S. Agaka, a tech journalist writes from PRNigeria Centre, Kano State.

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