"Digital Innovation Pivotal for Enhanced Governance and Economic Growth, Says NITDA DG"
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA October, 2024-
The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, has stressed that adopting digital solutions is vital for improving governance and service delivery in Nigeria. He highlighted the role of technology in modernising public services, which he says is key to driving economic growth and development.
Speaking at the Nigeria Govtech Conference and Awards in Abuja, organised by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Inuwa emphasized that digital innovations align with the Federal Government's vision of creating a robust digital economy. The conference, themed “Digital Innovations as a Catalyst for the Renewed Hope Agenda”, explored the potential of technology to accelerate government reforms.
Inuwa pointed out that digitising government services can streamline policy implementation and improve the efficiency of public programmes. He also underscored the need for a comprehensive agenda focused on human capital development, digital literacy, and skills training in both formal and informal sectors to support Nigeria's transformation.
“This transformation will build strong institutions that enhance the lives of citizens through better governance and technological adoption, in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Inuwa stated.
He also detailed NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 (SRAP 2024-2027), which is built on eight pillars. These include fostering digital literacy, cultivating talent, enhancing cybersecurity, and promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure. Inuwa noted that the agency aims to achieve 95% digital literacy by 2030, with an interim target of 70% by 2027.
NITDA is pursuing several initiatives to reach these goals. One of the key projects includes working with the Ministry of Education to integrate digital literacy into school curricula. Another initiative targets the informal sector, providing market women and artisans with the digital skills they need to improve their businesses.
Additionally, NITDA is collaborating with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) through the "Digital Literacy for All" programme, which has already launched in 12 states, aiming to train 30 million Nigerians nationwide.
In his remarks, the Director General of BPSR, Dasuki Arabi, reiterated the importance of digital transformation for Nigeria’s public service. He noted that e-governance reforms have the potential to enhance transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement, positioning Nigeria as a leader in digital governance.
“With the right technology and innovation, we can not only fulfil the mandates of the Renewed Hope Agenda but also build a more inclusive and prosperous society for all Nigerians,” Arabi concluded.
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