The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has formally received the Nigeria Government Enterprise Architecture (NGEA) Portal, marking a major step forward in Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.

The handover ceremony, held at the Continental Hotel in Abuja on Thursday, signaled the completion of a strategic collaboration between Nigeria and the Republic of Korea, with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

Represented by NITDA’s Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, Dr. DimieWarowei, Abdullahi described the development as the culmination of over two years of joint efforts aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s public sector digital infrastructure.

The NGEA initiative, launched in late 2022, forms a critical part of Nigeria’s e-Government Masterplan 2.0. It is designed to modernize government operations through integrated systems and standardized frameworks across ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).

According to Abdullahi, Nigerian and Korean experts worked collaboratively to review and upgrade the country’s enterprise architecture framework, resulting in a revised structure that enhances interoperability, efficiency, and alignment with national priorities.

As part of the project, key reference models—including Technology, Business, and Service models—have been developed to guide implementation across MDAs, with additional Data and Performance Reference Models expected to further strengthen the system.

Pilot programmes were successfully implemented in major government institutions such as the National Identity Management Commission, the Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and NITDA. These agencies also benefited from capacity-building initiatives and tailored digital transformation roadmaps.

The project’s supporting infrastructure was deployed by indigenous firm Qorebox Technologies Limited and hosted on facilities provided by Galaxy Backbone, with a two-year maintenance plan to ensure system stability.

Abdullahi emphasized that the NGEA Portal goes beyond being a digital platform, describing it as a foundational tool for building a more coordinated and citizen-centric government.

“The successful implementation of enterprise architecture across government will help reduce duplication, improve interoperability, and enhance service delivery,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to the Korean government and KOICA for their continued technical and strategic support, reaffirming NITDA’s commitment to scaling the framework nationwide.

In his remarks, KOICA Country Director, Eunsub Kim, described the portal as the product of a successful partnership, commending NITDA for its leadership and reaffirming the agency’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation.

Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, represented by Mr. Johnson Bareyei, said the initiative marks a shift from fragmented digital projects to a unified national framework.

He noted that the achievement aligns with the ministry’s broader reform agenda under the leadership of Bosun Tijani, while also commending both KOICA and NITDA for their roles in delivering the project.

The handover of the NGEA Portal ushers in a new phase, with NITDA set to oversee its operational management and long-term sustainability as Nigeria intensifies efforts to build a more efficient, digitally driven public sector.

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In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priority areas of economic reform, digital innovation, and improved governance, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated its commitment to supporting sub-national governments in building integrated, data-driven systems that enhance service delivery and drive sustainable growth.

This commitment was reinforced at the Future Enterprise & Data Architecture of Abia State workshop themed “One Citizen, One Identity: Unlocking Data-Driven Governance.” The high-level engagement brought together policymakers, technocrats, and development partners to chart a pathway toward a unified digital public sector anchored on interoperability and citizen-centric governance.

The workshop, organised by the state’s Ministry of Budget and Planning and declared open by Governor Alex Otti, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu, focused on strengthening interoperability among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance revenue generation and improve service delivery across the state.

Speaking during a panel session titled “Breaking Silos, Building One Government,” the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, who was represented by the Agency’s Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnership, Dr Aristotle Onumo, emphasised that collaboration remains the cornerstone of successful digital transformation.

“One thing that is very clear is partnership and collaboration. If you want to take advantage of collective intelligence, then partnership is the key. If you want to succeed in building a unified government system, collaboration is the way to go,” he stated.

He stressed that digital transformation is not merely about deploying technology but about transforming people and culture. According to him, resistance to change and entrenched institutional silos can undermine even the most sophisticated technological frameworks if mindset shifts are not prioritised.

“Digital transformation is as much about people as it is about process and technology. If culture resists change, it can undermine strategy at every level. We must move from control to collaboration, and from isolation to integration,” he added.

Highlighting NITDA’s strategic direction, the DG noted that the Agency’s action plan prioritises digital literacy as a foundational pillar for national development. He disclosed that NITDA is targeting 70 per cent digital literacy nationwide through structured interventions, including training 30 million Nigerians across formal and informal sectors using digital learning platforms deployed through community and institutional partnerships.

He further revealed that digital education is being integrated into school curricula at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, while civil servants across the federal public service are undergoing digital capacity development programmes to enhance institutional efficiency and readiness for interoperable governance systems.

On interoperability, Inuwa described it as “not optional but a necessity” for achieving data integrity, efficiency, and innovation in governance. He explained that NITDA is developing a national interoperability framework and advancing Enterprise Architecture (EA) initiatives across government institutions to ensure seamless data exchange.

“When we talk about interoperability, we mean that data generated in one agency should be accessible and usable by another in a consistent and secure format, without contradiction or confusion. That is how you build one government, not multiple disconnected systems,” he explained.

He added that a robust interoperability framework would not only improve internal government efficiency but also create a platform for innovation, enabling startups and young innovators to build solutions on structured public datasets.

While commending the state’s leadership for its vision and commission, he said, “If we achieve even 80 per cent of what has been presented here, Abia will not only lead among states, but it will also become a national reference point for digital innovation.”

The workshop concluded with a renewed call for stronger federal–state collaboration, policy alignment, and sustained investment in digital capacity to ensure that the vision of “One Citizen, One Identity” translates into tangible socio-economic impact.

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The Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa. CCIE, has reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to accelerate digital literacy and expand access to technology across Nigeria’s basic education system.

Inuwa made this known while receiving the UBEC management team, led by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, during a courtesy visit to NITDA Headquarters in Abuja.

He emphasised that collaboration between NITDA and UBEC is central to achieving Nigeria’s national digital literacy targets. “For us, partnering with you will help us achieve more in terms of reaching all students in basic education,” he said, noting that while significant progress has been made in training teachers, the broader national objective must prioritise learners.

He explained that teacher capacity development efforts are already yielding positive results, with digital literacy modules now embedded in NITDA’s programmes and mandated for educators. “We have achieved a lot in training teachers, but impact must be measurable,” he stated. “We need the numbers. How many students are being reached?” he asked, reiterating NITDA’s digital literacy targets of 70 per cent by 2027 and 95 per cent by 2030.

The Director General underscored the importance of leveraging data to measure impact effectively. “With this system, we should be able to know each teacher and how many people they are impacting, so that we can keep proper records and have the numbers,” he said, highlighting the role of Artificial Intelligence and data analytics in tracking progress nationwide.

On infrastructure, he disclosed that NITDA has deployed over 1,500 digital learning centres across the country under its strategic pillar on promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure and services. While some centres are well utilised, others remain underused. “We want every Nigerian to have access to digital infrastructure and services,” Inuwa stated, proposing that both agencies share data, map their interventions, and complement each other’s efforts to maximise impact.

Addressing the issue of internet connectivity in schools, Inuwa called for further exploration of sustainable models. “Let us explore multiple services they can use. How can we get more internet services to schools” he asked, stressing that connectivity is crucial to unlocking the full potential of digital learning facilities.

Beyond infrastructure and literacy, Inuwa offered to share NITDA’s digital transformation playbook with UBEC to support internal reforms within the Commission. “Digital transformation is a journey. It is not a one-off initiative. At each stage, when you reach your target, you need to set a new one,” he said.

He cited NITDA’s AI transformation roadmap, which involved training all staff on Generative AI and encouraging them to develop innovative use cases. “The idea was to train them and challenge them to see how AI can enhance what they do,” he explained, adding that, “AI is not here to replace people. If a junior staff member can transition from moving files to managing an AI system, I believe anyone can embrace and use AI.”

Inuwa further explained how process re-engineering within the Agency reduced repetitive approvals and administrative bottlenecks. “A Director General is not an expert in audit, procurement, or project management. Why can’t they just work and bring the final product for approval?” he remarked, noting that streamlined workflows allow leadership to focus on strategic direction.

In her remarks, UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, described the partnership with NITDA as both strategic and essential. She said, “For us in UBEC, our key mandate is universal access to basic education for all Nigerian children. So, it’s a big responsibility,” stressing that UBEC does not consider this mandate one it can fulfil alone. “We always seek partners that work with us—not just government agencies, but also communities and parents,” she added.

Garba highlighted the scale of the challenge, noting that over 47 million children are currently within Nigeria’s basic education system. “Whatever the number is, it’s not a small one,” she said, referencing varying statistics on out-of-school children. “Outside basic education, you have fewer than five million. So, this is really the biggest stake we all have.”

She emphasised that collaboration with NITDA is key to bridging access gaps and improving quality. “Partnering with NITDA is a necessity for us. We need to work together to use technology to bridge the lack of access in the country and to improve the quality of education,” she said, pointing to enrolment concerns and foundational literacy challenges in some states.

Garba also expressed appreciation for the NITDA Director General’s continued support.

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The Bauchi State Government, in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has launched the Digital Literacy and Skills Framework (DL4ALL Bauchi Initiative), a flagship programme designed to equip citizens with 21st-century skills and position the state as a hub for digital innovation.

Speaking at the launch, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, described digital literacy as a fundamental right and a strategic tool for economic empowerment. He said the initiative forms part of his administration’s broader vision to prepare youths and civil servants to compete globally, create productive jobs, and address poverty through technology.

“Technology and innovation are the fastest-growing industries in the world,” the governor said. “With the right skills, people can create sustainable value from anywhere—even from their homes. Beyond digital literacy, we are committed to producing an army of experts in advanced digital skills who will drive innovation and economic diversification.”

The governor added that the ultimate goal is to create jobs that provide lasting value, fight poverty, and restore dignity, noting that the state has invested heavily in infrastructure over the last six years to unlock economic opportunities for young people.

Representing NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director of the DG’s Office, Dr. Ayodeji Eniola, commended Bauchi for “taking a bold step towards ensuring the state is not left behind in the ongoing global digital revolution.”

The DL4ALL Bauchi Initiative aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 and the National Digital Literacy Framework, which focuses on six core competencies: device and software operation, information and data literacy, digital content creation, communication and collaboration, safety, and problem-solving.

The programme is anchored on three pillars:

Informal sector programme, which equips artisans, traders, and other informal workers with digital skills. Through the National Youth Service Corps, 7,101 Digital Literacy Champions have already reached over 267,000 Nigerians, with a target of 30 million beneficiaries by 2027.

Workforce readiness programme, aimed at providing public servants, graduates, and job seekers with employability skills. NITDA plans to train five million workers nationwide in partnership with Cisco and the Office of the Head of Service.

Educational sector programme, which integrates digital literacy into schools. A new Basic Education Digital Skills Curriculum will roll out in September 2025, alongside training for 3,600 teachers nationwide.

Highlighting Nigeria’s young population as the country’s greatest resource, Inuwa said Bauchi’s abundant human capital and strategic position in northern Nigeria place it in a strong position to become a hub for digital innovation and transformation.

The Director General of the Bauchi State Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy, Malam Hayatudeen Babamaji, described the launch as “a bold agenda for the digital future of Bauchi State.” He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a secure, inclusive, and globally competitive digital economy capable of generating jobs and revenue through technology-driven growth.

The launch attracted senior government officials, technology leaders, development partners, and lawmakers, marking a major milestone in Bauchi State’s digital transformation drive.

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By Fatimah Yusuf Usman,

The battles of this century are not always fought with boots on the ground or flags hoisted in victory. Some are waged silently, behind screens and across virtual halls where nations stake their claims not for land, but for digital relevance.

And in this unfolding global contest of codes and connectivity, Nigeria is no longer a bystander. At the center of this quiet revolution is Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi.

As Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa has gradually repositioned Nigeria from the margins of global tech diplomacy to a seat that matters. His method?

A quiet but consistent infiltration of rooms where the rules of the digital future are being written. At summits once dominated by familiar power blocs — Geneva, Davos, Dubai, New York — Nigeria now speaks in tones that echo beyond courtesy remarks.

Kashifu’s presence at platforms like the International Telecommunication Union, the World Economic Forum, GITEX Global, and the United Nations’ high-level tech dialogues signals more than attendance. It marks intent.

He does not arrive with spectacle, yet his words — often grounded in policy vision and continental consciousness — challenge dated assumptions about what Africa brings to the global digital table. Whether speaking of artificial intelligence, digital identity, or cross-border data flows, Inuwa ensures that Nigeria is not just seen, but heard, and increasingly, heeded.

This shift is neither accidental nor driven by borrowed blueprints. It is anchored in deliberate national frameworks: a Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a Data Protection Act aligned with global best practice, and a string of policies — from blockchain governance to digital economy masterplans — that aim to place the country on firm digital footing.

Yet perhaps his most telling move has been the recalibration of international partnerships. Under Kashifu Inuwa’s watch, Nigeria is not positioning itself as a tech charity case. It is pitching itself as a co-creator. The country now engages with global tech giants and development institutions not simply to receive support, but to define terms, share innovations, and build mutual infrastructure.

Deals with Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, the African Development Bank and others are increasingly framed around knowledge transfer, startup acceleration, innovation ecosystems, and youth upskilling. The language has shifted — from dependence to collaboration. From catch-up to co-ownership.

Behind the screen, where algorithms are policies and platforms are geopolitics, Kashifu Inuwa understands the stakes. He is acutely aware that artificial intelligence is not just a technology, but a terrain of influence. That digital sovereignty is not a catchphrase, but a currency.

And that if Nigeria — and indeed Africa — must compete in the fourth industrial revolution, it cannot arrive late, uninvited, or ill-prepared. This is why under his leadership, NITDA has embraced both experimentation and caution. Regulatory sandboxes. Innovation challenges. Startup Acts. Digital trust frameworks.

Each one a calculated move to foster local brilliance while protecting against digital chaos. His diplomacy is also continental. As he sits on pan-African tech panels and engages in cross-border digital frameworks, Inuwa is helping define what Africa’s collective posture in the digital future should be.

One that resists extractive data colonialism, one that builds for resilience, and one that upholds the ethics of inclusive technology. In many ways, Kashifu Inuwa is not just navigating a digital economy — he is helping redraw the map of digital power. His presence in these invisible battles is not always applauded, sometimes not even noticed at home.

But globally, the rooms are taking note. Because every time Nigeria asserts itself in a global AI discussion or outlines its own blockchain policy, it chips away at the old architecture that once excluded it. And behind it all is a quiet, deliberate architect who sees beyond screens — to sovereignty, to scale, to the story Nigeria wants to tell in the world of tomorrow.

The screen glows, but what lies behind it is far more important. And for now, Nigeria has someone who understands how to navigate that world.

Fatimah Yusuf Usman writes from PRNigeria Centre, Abuja. She can be reached via: fatimahborkono@gmail.com.

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Inuwa made this call when he spoke on “Harnessing AI for Strategic Leadership” during a panel session at the Main State of the GITEX Africa 2025 held in Marrakech, Morocco.

The aim of the panel session was essentially to explore how data-driven and intelligence-led strategies can transform business models, optimise resources, and unlock new opportunities through AI-powered processes across various nations.

Speaking to an international audience of policymakers, technologists, and investors, the DG positioned Africa, particularly Nigeria, as a rising force in the global AI landscape, championing a people-first and strategy-led approach to AI development and governance.

The DG argued that to be effective in today’s dynamic environment, leaders must evolve into AI-driven leaders and leverage technology not just as a tool, but as a partner in decision-making.

“AI is shifting the skills we value today, as well as the processes we use to do our daily work, so to drive strategic leadership, you need to be an AI-driven leader and find a way to use AI as a tool to create co-intelligence whereby you bring people and computers to work together to deliver your strategic vision as a leader,” he noted.

While urging leaders to combine AI with the unique strengths of their teams to deliver real business value, Inuwa stated that “Strategy must always come first, and technology second.”

He outlined four principles for effectively utilising generative AI which are inviting AI to the tale, maintaining human oversight, designing models with guardrails, and adopting a mindset of continuous improvement.

Inuwa explained that AI is invited to the table by giving it a role in organisational tasks, maintaining human oversight to correct bias and misjudgment, designing guardrails to ensure privacy ethics, and inclusivity, and adopting a mindset of continuous improvement by treating today’s AI as the least capable version that can be used.

He however warned against the risks of deploying AI systems built on data that fails to represent the diverse realities of global societies. Stressing the need for digital visibility of all cultures and citizens, he cautioned that if data doesn’t see a community, the system won’t see it either.

Introducing NITDA’s approach to governance in regulating AI through the Regulatory Intelligence Framework that is anchored on the 3 pillars of Awareness, Intelligence, and Dynamism.

“In our approach to regulating AI in governance, we have a framework we call the Regulatory Intelligence Framework, which as a regulator, we need to be aware of the environment, we need to be dynamic because things change, and we also need to be intelligent. We need to know the data and make sense out of it,” he disclosed.

“Then we have 2 approaches, the first one is a rule-based where you can come up with certain guidelines and expect people to comply with them and we have a non-rule based, which allows them to build use cases, and based on those use cases, put the guard rails and agree on the best practices, which is always the best when it comes to AI governance,” he added.

Envisioning Africa’s AI future in the next 5 years, Inuwa painted a visionary picture where the continent will integrate AI into solving real-world challenges in every economic sector, thereby leapfrogging development gaps.

Inuwa firmly averred that by augmenting human capability with AI, the continent can unlock unprecedented levels of innovation, efficiency, and inclusive growth.

“We missed the first, second, and third industrial revolutions, but this fourth one, we must lead it and not just follow.” He concluded.

Other industry leaders who shared their experiences and insightful ideas at the panel session were the Special Envoy on Technology, Republic of Kenya, Philip Thigo, CEO of Pesalink, Gituku Kirika, and the Head of Africa, Open AI, Emmanuel Lubanzadio.

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By Oluwole Alao

In total alignment with the presidential priority area of Reforming the Economy for Sustained Inclusive Growth and Accelerating Diversification through Industrialisation and Digitisation, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has announced the nationwide expansion of the Hub Managers training programme in harnessing technological innovation to improve the lives of Nigerians, create jobs and foster economic diversification.

The DG made this known at the iHatch Cohort 4 -Onsite Training for Hub Managers, which was organised by the agency in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) at the Hotel De Horizon, Wuse 2, Abuja.

The on-site training programme, which had 37 hub managers from the 36 states of the federation, including the FCT, will empower hubs to build robust incubation systems to support startups locally, develop strong regional ecosystems through partnerships and engagement, enhance their operational and mentorship capacity and provide access to international exchange programmes towards the adoption of best global practices.

While emphasising the current administration’s commitment to reforming the economy for sustained and inclusive growth, Inuwa highlighted that the key to achieving this goal lies in leveraging digital technology at the grassroots level to solve local problems across various sectors, including agriculture and small-scale trade.

“We don’t want technological innovation to be concentrated only in Lagos and Abuja. We want to take it to the grassroots and use it to solve real-life problems. That is why we designed the iHatch initiative,” he noted.

Inuwa disclosed that the pilot phase of the iHatch, which was conducted in Abuja, successfully trained 50 startups, which led to the creation of 179 direct jobs and over 1,500 indirect jobs, Inuwa stated that the expansion of the initiative to accommodate all the 37 states will create 740 direct jobs and 7,400 indirect jobs before the end of the year.

He said, “this initiative will domesticate innovation in states and enable start-ups solve real-life problems in areas of agriculture, healthcare, transportation and other sectors, that are peculiar to their different states”.

While stressing that innovation thrives in clusters where critical stakeholders can exchange ideas and incubate solutions, the NITDA DG underscored the importance of collaboration, networking and ecosystem development in driving innovation.

“To sustain this initiative, we must build a strong community where startups, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders can continuously share ideas and collaborate. We don’t want startups to just pass through the programme; we want them to remain within the iHatch ecosystem because we want this initiative to expand to all the 774 local governments of the country.” Inuwa explained.

He noted that in addition to job creation and ecosystem building, the initiative aligns with the Nigeria Startup Act, which aims to provide legal backing and incentives for startups.

Inuwa therefore urged the participants in the iHatch programme to act as champions in their respective states, spreading awareness about the Act and encouraging other startups to register and benefit from its provisions.

“In line with the president’s mandate, our ultimate goal is to see every Nigerian digitally literate, using technology to access government and private sector services. We also want our market women to leverage technology to expand their businesses,” he added.

He stated that the iHatch model ensures investment in local capacity where national potentials can be unleashed, he said “we at NITDA are proud to walk this journey with you. Let’s keep building, let’s keep innovating, and let’s continue to shape the future of Nigeria, one innovation at a time.”

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The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has hosted the Netherlands Ambassador at Large on Cyber Affairs, Mr Ernst Noorman, on a courtesy visit to discuss strategic areas of collaboration in cybersecurity.

The discussions focused on key issues, including the international cyber agenda, cyber threats, and cybercrime in Nigeria. Recognising the increasing complexity and frequency of cyber threats globally, both parties explored ways to foster strategic partnerships that would enhance Nigeria’s cybersecurity resilience, build capacity, and drive innovation in digital security.

Mr Noorman highlighted the Netherlands’ expertise in cybersecurity, particularly in developing robust cyber policies, fostering public-private partnerships, and strengthening cybercrime prevention mechanisms. He expressed his country’s willingness to support Nigeria in key areas such as:

Cybersecurity Policy Development – Strengthening Nigeria’s regulatory and legal framework to combat cyber threats effectively.

In response, Inuwa reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem through international cooperation, reinforcing existing cybersecurity policies, and supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a secure and prosperous digital economy.

He noted that NITDA is already working closely with key stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector players, and international partners, to ensure the country’s cybersecurity landscape is fortified against emerging threats.

This partnership marks a significant step towards bolstering Nigeria’s cyber defences, enhancing cross-border collaboration on cybersecurity challenges, and ensuring a safer digital environment for businesses and individuals in the country.

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The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has commended the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) for its unwavering commitment to advancing data privacy and protection in Nigeria. In a goodwill message delivered at the unveiling of the National Certification Programme for Data Protection Officers (DPOs) at the e-Government Training Centre, PSIN, Abuja, Inuwa praised the NDPC for its leadership and described the initiative as a landmark achievement in strengthening Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem.

Highlighting the critical role of Data Protection Officers in fostering trust and accountability, Inuwa drew from his own career journey to inspire participants. He urged them to seize the opportunity for continuous learning, emphasizing that in an era of digital transformation, the knowledge and skills of DPOs are indispensable for responsible data management and compliance.

“This certification programme is not just a milestone for the NDPC but a call to action for all stakeholders to ensure data privacy becomes a cornerstone of our digital economy,” Inuwa remarked, adding that the initiative aligns with global best practices in safeguarding personal information.

The event underscored the importance of collaboration between regulatory bodies and professionals in building a sustainable framework for data protection in Nigeria. With this program, the NDPC aims to empower Data Protection Officers with the expertise to navigate the evolving complexities of data privacy, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of digital governance and accountability.

Inuwa’s address served as both a commendation of the NDPC’s progress and a rallying cry for participants to embrace their pivotal role in shaping a future where data is managed ethically and securely.

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The Federal Government has announced plans to launch the latest version of Internet Protocol, known as IPv6, aimed at improving the identification, numbering, and tracking of internet users and their devices across Nigeria.

The announcement was made at the IPv6 Driven Digital Summit, themed “Bringing Net 5.5G Into Reality: Inspiring New Growth.” The event was organized by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with Huawei, the IPv6 Forum, and the IPv6 Council of Nigeria.IPv6 is expected to revolutionize the management and security of internet traffic in Nigeria, aligning the country with global standards for cybersecurity and digital infrastructure.

The new protocol will make it easier to monitor and protect online activities, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s cybersecurity efforts.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, highlighted Nigeria’s leadership in Africa with this migration to IPv6.

“With the adoption of IPv6, network providers in Nigeria can now offer more reliable services while enhancing the security of online transactions,” he stated.

The Minister emphasized the protocol’s potential to unmask cybercriminals, improving the country’s ability to secure its digital environment.

“This is the standard used globally, but only a few countries like the U.S., France, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are on IPv6; others are trying to catch up,” he noted.

Malam Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of NITDA, pointed out that implementing IPv6 in Nigeria requires minimal investment.

He cited research from Roland Berger, a global consultancy firm, which indicates that adopting IPv6 could unlock a $10 trillion global market.

Inuwa added that most existing devices are already compatible with IPv6, with the main focus now being on developing a clear strategy and policy for the migration.

“This migration to IPv6 is expected to open new economic opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity posture,” Inuwa said.In addition to the IPv6 initiative, NigComSat, Nigeria’s satellite communications company, has begun the process of replacing the NIGCOMSAT-1R satellite, which is set to complete its 15-year lifespan in 2026.

The company is seeking global investors and collaborators for this critical project.To bridge the digital divide, NigComSat has partnered with Hotspot Network Limited to enhance internet connectivity in rural communities across Nigeria.

This collaboration aims to deliver reliable and affordable internet access to underserved areas, improving digital services and opportunities for residents.

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