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Tag: NITDA

  • NITDA, others push for tech deployment

    NITDA, others push for tech deployment

    The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Dr Kashifu Inuwa; the Special Adviser to the President Bola Tinubu on Economic Matters, Dr. Tope Fasuwa and others have called for enhanced deployment of technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) to aid the country’s quest for economic diversification and general development.

    Inuwa, Fasua and others said the adoption of AI was capable of enhancing the economic growth in the fourth global industrial revolution, arguing that AI constitutes a key factor in driving economic prosperity.

    They spoke in Abuja yesterday at the third Economic Confidential lecture and PRNigeria book presentation, held under the theme: “Agenda for a digital global economy.”

    Another speaker at the event was Dr Afolabi Olajunwon of the Budget Office of the Federation.

    Inuwa, who gave the keynote, said the nation’s digital economy has the potential to drive 20 per cent GDP growth, if strategically harnessed. 

    He argued that AI is no longer optional, but essential, noting that those who fail to improve on their skills would be replaced. 

    “AI can free up 20 per cent of time for higher productivity. Nations leading in AI will lead the world,” he said, adding that the country could not afford to miss the fourth industrial revolution, after losing out in the first three revolutions.

      Inuwa spoke about ongoing collaborations between NITDA and the Ministry of Education to build digital literacy into the educational system, national curriculum and with the office of Head of Service of the Federation to enhance civil service training .

    He said: “Market women can now connect with customers through mobile technology. But as we connect, we must also protect and cybersecurity is a critical pillar.”

     Olujuwon, who represented the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), warned that any nation, particularly in Africa, that refuses to embrace the digital revolution will be left behind in global development.

    Read Also: NITDA trains 350,000 northerners, sets up 101 e-learning centres in two years

    He said Nigeria, as a large country in Africa, must not only adopt technology but must become exporters of it to lead Africa in the 4th industrial revolution.

    Olujuwon noted that Nigeria, though blessed with abundant talents, must imbibe the spirit of motivation to harness technology, not as a consumer, but as a creator and exporter of technology.

    He pleaded with the country’s leaders to ensure that the country join forces with international policies makers to chart a new path to a prosperous nation.

    Fasuwa, represented by Aremu Elijah reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to recalibrating Nigeria’s economy.

    He emphasized that rebased economic data confirms measurable progress, noting that “we are shifting from traditional models to a tech-driven future.” The service sector, he said, is proving to be a “tremendous equalizer” in the new economy.

    Highlight of the event was the launch of three groundbreaking books by young journalists: Renewed Hope in Central Banking by Rahman Oladosu; Healing Nigeria: Chronicle of Health by Lawal Mamman and Maimuna Aliyu and Diplomacy and Digital Innovation: Youth Insight by Fatimah Usman.

    Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Economic Confidential and PRNigeria, Yushau Shuaib said the books that were unveiled at the event “are critical tools for evidence-based policy and decision-making.”

  • Beyond NITDA’s removal of harmful online content

    Beyond NITDA’s removal of harmful online content

    Sir: When the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) disclosed that more than 58 million harmful pieces of content were taken down from major platforms such as Google, Microsoft, and TikTok in Nigeria last year, it was more than a headline statistic. It was a powerful statement on the scale of Nigeria’s digital challenges—and a reflection of how far its regulatory ecosystem has come. Beneath the number lies a deeper conversation: what this data reveals about NITDA’s role, the evolving nature of online threats, and the delicate balance between regulation and innovation in Nigeria’s digital space.

    The compliance figures—filed under the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms jointly issued by NITDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission, and the National Broadcasting Commission—signal a fast-maturing regulatory framework. Over 754,000 user complaints were lodged, leading to millions of harmful items being removed and nearly 14 million accounts shut down. These measures are more than routine mechanics of online safety; they represent the scaffolding that allows Nigerians to engage online without being drowned in abuse, scams, or misinformation. Their true value lies in the intelligence they generate for regulators.

    For NITDA, compliance reports are not mere paperwork—they are windows into digital behaviour. They reveal patterns of abuse, highlight categories of content that pose the greatest risks, and expose gaps that demand more than takedowns or suspensions. A regulator that only enforces rules will always be reactive, lagging behind bad actors. But a regulator that interprets data can anticipate threats, influence platform design, and shape preventive strategies. This is where NITDA’s insight matters as much as its oversight.

    Read Also: Nigerian antiquities get fresh breather in first digital museum

    The urgency of this work is underscored by Nigeria’s online landscape. With 107 million citizens connected—nearly half the population—and 38.7 million active on social media, exposure to digital harm is pervasive. On average, Nigerians spend more than six hours online daily, most of it on social platforms. Against this backdrop, 58 million harmful content removals are not routine clean-ups; they are indicators of just how deeply users are already exposed.

    Consider the ratio: nearly 59 million harmful content removals in 2024 equate to more than one harmful post or account neutralized for every active social media user in Nigeria. This illustrates not just the urgency of regulation but also the magnitude of the challenge: for every safe interaction online, there is a constant, invisible battle against toxicity, fraud, and manipulation.

    Still, numbers alone cannot guarantee trust. Fifty-eight million removals do not automatically translate into safety. Harmful content often reappears, legitimate voices may be wrongly silenced, and appeals can overturn moderation decisions. For NITDA, the priority must shift from counting takedowns to interpreting them. Which types of harm dominate? Are vulnerable groups disproportionately affected? Do successful appeals reveal flaws in moderation, or are they loopholes exploited by bad actors? Without such insights, compliance could risk becoming a bureaucratic exercise rather than a genuine safeguard.

    Yet, the progress is undeniable. Not long ago, Nigerian regulators were seen as too weak to hold global platforms accountable. Today, some of the world’s largest tech firms are filing detailed compliance reports in Abuja—a striking transformation that underscores Nigeria’s growing influence. In this environment, compliance is no longer optional; it is the cost of doing business in Africa’s largest digital market.

    Equally important is the human dimension. Nigerians must feel NITDA’s presence not only as a regulator behind the scenes but as a visible ally. That requires breaking down technical reports into simple insights for the public, investing in digital literacy, and empowering citizens to recognize and resist harmful content. It is not enough for harmful posts to vanish; users must understand why they were dangerous and how to avoid them in the future.

    The story of 58 million removals is, therefore, not just about what disappeared from Nigerian timelines. It is about how a regulator is learning from the digital battlefield, transforming raw data into actionable intelligence, and building a governance model that is both firm and adaptive. More importantly, it signals Nigeria’s transition from being a passive consumer of global tech policies to becoming an active shaper of digital norms. If NITDA continues to treat compliance data not just as evidence of alignment but as a tool for foresight, Nigeria could position itself not merely as a participant in the global conversation on online safety but as a continental leader setting the pace.

    •Shuaib S. Agaka,Kano.

  • NITDA DG, stakeholders call for greater use of technology to drive economic diversification

    NITDA DG, stakeholders call for greater use of technology to drive economic diversification

    The director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Dr Kashifu Inuwa; the special adviser to the President Bola Tinubu on economic matters, Dr. Tope Fasuwa and others have called for enhanced deployment of technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), in aid of the country’s quest for economic diversification and general development.

    Inuwa, Fasua and others said the adoption of AI was capable of enhancing the economic growth in the fourth global industrial revolution, arguing that AI constitutes a key factor in driving economic prosperity.

    They spoke in Abuja on Wednesday at the third economic confidential lecture and PRNigeria book presentation, held under the theme: “Agenda for a digital global economy.”

    Another speaker at the event was Dr Afolabi Olajunwon of the Budget Office of the Federation.

    Inuwa, who gave the keynote address, declared that the nation’s digital economy has the potential to drive 20 per cent GDP growth, if strategically harnessed.

    He argued that artificial intelligence is no longer optional, but essential, noting that those who fail to improve their skills would be replaced.

    “AI can free up 20 per cent of time for higher productivity. Nations leading in AI will lead the world,” he said, adding that the country could not afford to miss the fourth industrial revolution, after losing out in the first three revolutions.

     Inuwa spoke about ongoing collaborations between his agency and the Ministry of Education to build digital literacy into Nigeria’s educational system, national curriculum and with the office of the Head of Service of the Federation to enhance civil service training.

    He said, “Market women can now connect with customers through mobile technology. But as we connect, we must also protect, and cybersecurity is a critical pillar.”

    Olujuwon, who represented the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), warned that any nation, particularly in Africa, that refuses to embrace the digital revolution will be left behind in global development.

    He said Nigeria, as a large country in Africa, must not only adopt technology but must also become an exporter of it to lead Africa in the 4th industrial revolution.

    Olujuwon noted that Nigeria, though blessed with abundant talents, must imbibe the spirit of motivation to harness technology, not as a consumer, but as a creator and exporter of technology.

    He pleaded with the country’s leaders to ensure that the country joins forces with international policymakers to chart a new path to a prosperous nation.

    Read Also: AI is thought partner, not a threat, NITDA DG tells CEOs

    Fasuwa, represented by Aremu Elijah, reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to recalibrating Nigeria’s economy.

    He emphasised that rebased economic data confirms measurable progress, noting that “we are shifting from traditional models to a tech-driven future.” The service sector, he said, is proving to be a “tremendous equaliser” in the new economy.

    Highlight of the event was the launch of three groundbreaking books by young journalists: Renewed Hope in Central Banking by Rahman Oladosu; Healing Nigeria: Chronicle of Health by Lawal Mamman and Maimuna Aliyu; and Diplomacy and Digital Innovation: Youth Insight by Fatimah Usman

    Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Economic Confidential and PRNigeria, Yushau Shuaib, said the books that were unveiled at the event “are critical tools for evidence-based policy and decision-making.”

  • NITDA trains 350,000 northerners, sets up 101 e-learning centres in two years

    NITDA trains 350,000 northerners, sets up 101 e-learning centres in two years

    The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has disclosed that over 350,000 northerners have benefited from digital literacy training programmes across the northern States within the last two years.

    He also said that about 101 e-learning centres have been established, while 13 Information Technology (IT) Community Centres and one Cybersecurity Research Centre have also been established in the region within the period under review.

    Mal Abdullahi spoke in Kaduna during a two-day interactive session on Government Citizens Engagement organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.

    A statement signed by NITDA Director of Corporate Communications, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, noted that deepening digital literacy, accelerating innovation, and expanding technology infrastructure are priority programmes of the present administration.

    Hajiya Umar stated that the administration believes that such programmes are key drivers for inclusive national development.

    The Engagement had the theme “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government Engagement for National Unity.”

    Read Also: NITDA, GetBundi collaborate to equip NYSC members with digital skills

    It was aimed at reflecting on the progress of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the area of governance delivery and citizen inclusion.

    The NITDA boss emphasised that digital transformation is not only central to achieving the eight priority areas outlined by President Tinubu, but also foundational to uniting the country through equitable access to opportunities.

    He described the digital economy as a cross-cutting enabler capable of enhancing productivity across all sectors, from agriculture and education to healthcare and financial services.

    According to him, “Digital technology is not a vertical sector; it is pervasive and foundational. It powers everything else and provides a framework for inclusive growth.”

    On human capital, Mal Abdullahi noted that Nigeria’s greatest resource is its people, and developing digital skills at scale is crucial to unlocking that potential. He said through initiatives such as the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and the Digital Literacy for All campaign, NITDA has trained over 350,000 individuals in Northern Nigeria since 2023.

     He explained that the goal is to ensure that by 2027, more than 70 percent of Nigerians would have attained basic digital literacy.

    To achieve this, Abdullahi said NITDA is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Education to embed digital skills into the formal education system from kindergarten to tertiary level. He added that partnerships with the National Universities Commission (NUC) are ongoing to ensure digital literacy becomes part of the general studies curriculum across Nigerian universities.

    In addition, NITDA is collaborating with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to train corps members annually, who in turn serve as digital literacy champions, taking technology skills into rural communities and informal sectors.

    Highlighting infrastructure as another critical area, the NITDA Chief Executive announced that the Federal Government had approved the deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables across the country to expand broadband penetration.

    He also stated that three digital centres are currently being built in each state to ensure that underserved and unserved communities can participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

    “Northern Nigeria, with its wide coverage and developmental needs, is expected to benefit immensely from this rollout.

    “So far, 13 IT Community Centres, 101 Digital Economy e-learning centres and one cybersecurity Research Centre were established in the last two years”, he said. 

  • NITDA, GetBundi collaborate to equip NYSC members with digital skills

    NITDA, GetBundi collaborate to equip NYSC members with digital skills

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and GetBundi Education Technology have commenced the phase 2 of the training of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members on digital skills.

    The training, which focuses on Graphics, Digital Marketing and Cybersecurity, comes under NITDA’s ongoing Digital Literacy for All Initiative (DL4ALL) which aims to propel Nigeria to a 70 per cent digital literacy level by 2027.

    Last year, NITDA and GetBundi Education Technology began a collaboration that saw GetBundi develop a digital literacy framework and implementation model in the six competency areas of the DL4ALL.

     As part of the collaboration, GetBundi also trained selected corps members under the pilot phase of the DL4ALL initiative. The corps were thereafter onboarded as Digital Literacy Champions and became NITDA ambassadors, training and sharing their knowledge in their primary places of deployment or assignment.

    In return for the corps members’ support for DL4ALL, NITDA and GetBundi have now partnered to equip the corps members with 3 skill sets that will make them instantly employable.

    NITDA’s DL4ALL initiative aims to train a critical mass of Nigerians in the informal sector in foundational digital literacy skills to equip them with the necessary tools to access and utilise online resources for education, employment, and financial services safely; protect themselves online from cyber threats and misinformation; communicate and collaborate effectively using digital tools; and develop the digital fluency required for many in-demand jobs.

    NITDA had said the initiative would be implemented through a multi-stakeholder approach that would leverage the expertise from reach of a diverse group of actors from across the Nigerian landscape.

    Read Also: NITDA flags off southeast tech talent hunt ahead of GITEX Nigeria 2025

    Earlier, GetBundi had also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to empower students across federal, state and private colleges of education with the right digital skill sets for tomorrow’s classroom.

    The collaboration, aimed at training 2,900 students from 29 Federal Colleges of Education in advanced digital literacy and key skills like Graphics, Excel, Video Editing, and Digital Marketing in the pilot phase, was part of national efforts to attract more youths into teaching careers and build a sustainable educational system. 

    It also signalled NCCE’s recognition of the critical role of technology in catalysing educational and personal growth of individuals as well as the centrality of digital literacy and digital skills in achieving successful digital transformation in Nigeria.

  • NITDA flags off southeast tech talent hunt ahead of GITEX Nigeria 2025

    NITDA flags off southeast tech talent hunt ahead of GITEX Nigeria 2025

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) on Tuesday launched a regional tech startup competition in Enugu, aimed at identifying the most promising innovators from Nigeria’s southeast geopolitical zone ahead of the GITEX Nigeria 2025 Startup Festival.

    Young tech entrepreneurs from Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states gathered for the GITEX Nigeria 2025 Regional Roadshow, a prelude to the national startup event slated for Abuja from September 1 to 4.

    Speaking at the Enugu roadshow, the State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Lawrence Ezeh, hailed the initiative as a strategic move to spotlight emerging digital talent and empower youth in the region.

    “This is more than a competition. It’s a pipeline to national relevance and global competitiveness,” Ezeh said. “Our youths must seize this moment to become part of the GITEX Nigeria 2025 story, and possibly GITEX Global in Dubai.”

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    Dr. Nkem Momah, Head of NITDA’s south east zonal office, said the programme seeks to discover startups building scalable, problem-solving solutions in sectors such as HealthTech, AgriTech, FinTech, AI, EdTech, ClimateTech, and CreativeTech.

    “Our goal is to identify and empower bold innovators whose solutions can reshape Nigeria’s digital economy,” Momah said.

    Winners from the Southeast pitch competition will earn a sponsored slot to exhibit at the Abuja Startup Festival, where they’ll pitch to a panel of tech investors, industry experts, government officials, and the media. They’ll also be considered for global exposure at GITEX Global in Dubai—one of the world’s biggest technology trade shows.

    GITEX Nigeria is modelled after Dubai’s Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX), which has served as a global innovation hub since 1981.

  • NITDA, JICA sign agreement to build $11.2 million innovation hub in Abuja 

    NITDA, JICA sign agreement to build $11.2 million innovation hub in Abuja 

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed an agreement for the commencement of a $11.2 million innovation hub in Abuja.

    The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, who announced this in Abuja, said that the project began with the launch of the iHatch, an initiative designed to co-train and incubate startups, supported with seed funding by JICA.

    The project is in collaboration with a consortium of Consultants amongst which were Chief Consultant, Consortium of Oriental Consultants Global Co. Ltd., Intem Consulting Inc., and Yachiyo Engineering Co. Ltd.

    According to the Director of Corporate Communications of NITDA, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, the project, backed by a $11.2 million grant from JICA, is designed to significantly boost Nigeria’s innovation landscape by providing vital infrastructure and support for startups.

    Hajiya Hadiza also said it would serve as a centre for creativity, research, and technological development.

    “To strengthen this relationship, JICA decided to give us a grant to build an innovation hub, so that after training the startups, they can have access to a makerspace where they can turn their ideas into products and services, JICA is giving us a grant worth of $11.2 million to build this innovation hub,” she said in a statement. 

    She said the DG of NITDA lauded the collaborative efforts aimed at deepening the relationship between the Nigerian and Japanese technology ecosystems.

    Inuwa highlighted the importance of ongoing exchange programmes, which not only foster knowledge sharing and skills transfer but also open new avenues for collaboration between innovators in both countries.

    These initiatives, he noted, are instrumental to creating a more enabling environment for Nigerian startups to grow into sustainable, innovation-driven enterprises capable of competing on a global scale.

    “It’s about building the entire ecosystem; we are not just training startups, we are also giving them the tools, the environment, and the financing they need to thrive,” he stated.

    “Beyond infrastructure, the hub is envisioned as a catalyst for economic growth by nurturing homegrown talent and promoting entrepreneurship.

    “It will serve as a critical bridge between training and commercialisation, offering a conducive environment for startups to ideate, experiment, and scale their businesses, ” the DG asserted. 

    “By equipping innovators with the resources that they need to thrive, such as mentorship, incubation support, and access to seed funding, the project aims to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading tech and innovation hub in Africa,” Inuwa added.  

  • NITDA equips PRNigeria Ilorin Centre to boost youth digital skills

    NITDA equips PRNigeria Ilorin Centre to boost youth digital skills

    In a significant move to advance digital empowerment and media innovation, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has equipped the PRNigeria Centre in Ilorin with cutting-edge digital infrastructure.

    The intervention marks a major milestone in NITDA’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusive access to information technology and bridge the digital divide, especially among young Nigerians.

    The PRNigeria Centre—an initiative of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential, and other titles—has operational hubs in Abuja, Kano, and now Ilorin.

    Speaking at the commissioning and handover ceremony, Dr. Mohammed Onimisi Yahaya, Acting Director of Project Management at NITDA, described the project as a strategic step toward building a digitally empowered society.

    “This initiative underscores NITDA’s unwavering commitment to expanding access to digital tools and nurturing youth-driven innovation that aligns with national development priorities,” he said.

    The newly installed facilities include solar energy systems, high-performance computer systems, Huawei IdeaHub smart interactive displays, inverters, air conditioners, high-speed internet connectivity, and access to digital learning platforms.

    Mr. Abdulhameed Tayo Shittu, Manager of the PRNigeria Centre Ilorin, hailed the transformation of the establishment and commended NITDA Director General, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, for championing the digital agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    “With this upgraded infrastructure, we are better positioned to groom a new generation of digitally skilled communicators and changemakers,” the manager said.

    Shittu acknowledged the support of the Kwara State Government, the Ilorin Emirate, and community leaders, particularly Alhaji Kale Kawu Agaka (Daniyan Ilorin). He also praised the visionary leadership of IMPR CEO, Yushau A. Shuaib, and his consistent investment in youth mentorship and the promotion of modern communication skills.

    Shittu announced the launch of the Creative Skills Bootcamp that will be facilitated by professionals and will feature practical workshops, welfare support, and certification for participants upon completion. The training programme offers hands-on sessions in storytelling, public speaking, video editing, photography, and graphic design.

    Read Also: NITDA commissions cybersecurity centre in Kano

    The Ilorin Centre hosted its first cohort of PRNigeria Fellows in October 2024, following similar initiatives in Abuja and Kano. With the latest support from NITDA and the Creative Skills Bootcamp, the centre is poised to serve as a leading hub for digital skill acquisition and youth development in Kwara State and the North-Central region.

    The Ilorin Centre also hosted training for journalists in Digital Journalism—in partnership with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the inaugural Young Communication Fellowship on Artificial Intelligence for Strategic Communication, endorsed by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

    In three years, PRNigeria has trained approximately 300 journalists and empowered more than 1,400 young Nigerians with practical digital communication skills, using state-of-the-art technology.

  • NITDA, NGF, others applaud NGO for empowering 500 girls with digital skills

    NITDA, NGF, others applaud NGO for empowering 500 girls with digital skills

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that empower the digital literacy skills of the Nigerian girl-child.

    The Director General (DG) of the agency, Kashifu Abdullah, said the commitment is to ensure Nigeria raises future leaders who are not just users of technology but creators of sustainable digital solutions.

    The Director General, who gave the assurance in Abuja over the weekend at the WeTechHer graduation ceremony and book launch by the Lola Cater for the Needy Foundation, emphasized that building technological capacity among young girls must be taken seriously by all stakeholders, including parents and the wider community.

    The WeTechHer was organized by Lola Cater for the Needy Foundation, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Committee of States’ Commissioners of Education, following the empowerment of 500 girls aged between 8 years and 18 with digital literacy skills after an intensive course in digital solutions.

    The graduates received training in various digital fields, including animation, robotics, data analysis, web development, AI, and digital marketing.

    The graduation event also featured the unveiling of a book titled ‘Tech Queens: The Code to the Future’, a publication that highlights the stories of girls who have excelled in the foundation’s tech empowerment program.

    Read Also: NITDA commissions cybersecurity centre in Kano

    Represented by his Special Assistant (SA), Mrs. Iklima Musa, the DG commended the Lola Cater for the Needy Foundation for its dedication to building technology capacity among young girls.

    He described the WeTechHer initiative as both timely and vital in a rapidly evolving digital age, emphasizing the importance of inclusive participation, particularly for girls, in the tech space. 

    “This initiative ensures we are nurturing future leaders who will not only use technology but also develop sustainable digital solutions,” he said.

    Reaffirming NITDA’s commitment to bridging the digital divide, Abdullah highlighted the agency’s “Digital Literacy for All” program, which aims to achieve 70% digital literacy in Nigeria by 2030. 

    He cited inspiring examples of innovations led by women, such as tools for early cancer detection and promoting financial inclusion, underscoring the transformative impact of empowering girls in tech.

    Abdullah expressed hope that platforms like WeTechHer would inspire and launch the next generation of technology leaders. 

    He congratulated the graduates and urged them to embrace emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cybersecurity to address national challenges.

    Also speaking, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Gender Matters, Kehinde Charity Awujoola, highlighted digital education for girls as essential to nation-building. 

    The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, reinforced the significance of equipping young girls with digital skills as a catalyst for national development.

    “In today’s world, where digital innovation drives progress, investing in the tech education of girls in areas like AI, robotics, web development, and renewable energy is not just progressive, it is foundational for nation-building,”

    He commended the Foundation for aligning with the Ministry’s goal of empowering young Nigerians for the digital future.

    Dr. Kolawole Olobashola, the Director of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), emphasized overcoming cultural and structural barriers to digital access for girls. 

    Similarly, Dr. Leo Ebenezer, Head of Education at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Chair of the Committee of States’ Commissioners of Education reaffirmed the commitment of State Education Commissioners to expand tech opportunities and integrate WeTechHer into national celebrations for the International Day of the Girl Child.

    Founder of the Lola Cater for the Needy Foundation, Ololade Ogunnubi, in her remarks, while celebrating the achievements of the graduating cohort, described the program as a testament to what is possible when girls are equipped with the right tools and opportunities.

    According to Ogunnubi, the program attracted nearly 1,500 applications within 48 hours, drawing participants from diverse backgrounds and states across Nigeria. 

    “Our goal was to provide not just skills, but also the confidence and community needed for these girls to thrive in a tech-driven world,” she said. 

    Expressing gratitude to facilitators, partners, and supporters, Ogunnubi credited the success of the program to collaborative efforts.

    While appreciating the graduates, Ogunnubi encouraged parents to support their girl-child in pursuing their tech dreams by not passing up opportunities for empowerment innovations such as WeTechHer.

    “You are more than just participants, you are pioneers. You’ve shown resilience, brilliance, and creativity. You are our Tech Queens, and the future is already brighter because of you,” she stressed.

  • NITDA commissions cybersecurity centre in Kano

    NITDA commissions cybersecurity centre in Kano

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has said the newly built national cybersecurity centre at Bayero University Kano (BUK) will serve as a springboard for cross-sector collaboration between government, academia and industry.

    NITDA’s Director of Zonal Coordination Department, Dr. Jide Ajayi, stated this when he commissioned the state-of-the-art facility at the varsity’s new campus, on behalf of the agency’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi.

    He said the Centre will support cybersecurity research, facilitate hands-on training, and serve as a resource hub for national and regional stakeholders working to protect Nigeria’s critical digital infrastructure.

    Read Also: Housing Ministry raises alarm over fake sale of recovered 753-unit estate

    “The commissioning of this National Cybersecurity Centre at Bayero University Kano is not just the unveiling of a facility.

    “It is the activation of a national asset; a knowledge-driven platform designed to equip our nation with the tools, talent, and infrastructure required to safeguard our digital space and empower the next generation of cybersecurity experts.

    “This Centre represents a deliberate and strategic intervention by NITDA to support cybersecurity education, capacity development, research and development, and innovation, which are essential to achieving the aspirations of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Minister’s Strategic Blueprint,” he said.

    The DG noted that cybersecurity has become a critical enabler of trust in the digital economy. “As digital transformation accelerates, so do the risks associated with data breaches, cyber threats, and digital vulnerabilities,” he said.

    “This Centre reflects our deliberate investment in proactive solutions, that is, blending research, innovation, training, and collaboration to fortify our national digital ecosystem,” he added.