By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has called for stronger collaboration between government institutions and startups to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Speaking at the Nigerian Satellite Week 2026 in Abuja, Inuwa said partnerships are critical to translating innovation into measurable impact.
“Innovation without adoption is wasted,” he said, stressing the need for policies and infrastructure that enable startups to scale.
Represented by Aristotle Onumo, he outlined key priorities, including building an enabling ecosystem, investing in talent, and focusing on practical, scalable solutions rather than isolated projects.
Also speaking, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, described satellite infrastructure as critical to Nigeria’s digital future.
He disclosed that Pres. Bola Tinubu has approved the acquisition of NigComSat-2A and NigComSat-2B to strengthen the country’s space capabilities.
Tijani added that the government is expanding digital infrastructure through fibre optic rollout, deployment of telecom towers in underserved areas, and increased investment in research to support innovation.
The Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Ideyen, said Nigeria’s space programme is witnessing growth driven by reforms and rising demand for satellite services.
She noted that the focus is shifting towards practical outcomes that improve connectivity and support economic development.
The event brought together stakeholders from government, startups, and the private sector to explore the role of space technology in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy.