The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has restated commitment to the promotion of cybersecurity and data protection in Nigeria.
The Director-General of the agency, Kashifu Abdulahi, stated this on Tuesday in Osigbo at a stakeholders’ engagement forum tagged: “Stakeholders’ Engagement and ICT Ecosystem Development”.
The theme of the event is: “Creating Opportunities, Breaking Boundaries Towards Digitalisation And Entrepreneurial Evolution”.
He said the agency was committed towards developing a vibrant IT sector to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, enhance digital literacy and skills development of the citizens.
Represented by Ayodeji Eniola, a director in the agency, Abdullahi said it also focus to promote cybersecurity, data protection, encourage strategic collaboration and partnerships as well as facilitate collaborative governance.
“As stakeholders in this journey to a digital future, I urge you all to collaborate with us in developing and implementing policies that support IT development, especially at the grassroot.
“Invest in research and development to drive digital innovation, develop capacity building programmes for Nigerians and engage in constructive dialogue to address challenges and opportunities,” he said.
Abdullahi said the agency was geared towards making Nigeria a leading digital economy in Africa.
He said that as the country was navigating the complexities of the 21st century, it become evident that technology was the catalyst for economic growth, innovation and societal transformation.
“Our collective vision is to position Nigeria as a leading digital economy in Africa and this platform provides a platform for us to align our strategies and effort, as well as create programmes and policies that speak to our national priorities,” he said.
The NITDA boss said the agency had adopted viable initiatives in alignment with the Federal Government’s priorities of improving service delivery and job creation, to encourage development of vibrant IT sector that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Together we can drive economic growth, enhance governance and public service, and position Nigeria as a leader in the global digital landscape”.
Also speaking, Rita Shoremi, the Head of the agency in South-West, said the stakeholders’ forum was to foster collaboration between the agency and other stakeholders in creating a robust platform for dialogue and mutual growth.
“We are in the digital era where IT is integrated into every sector revolutionising the way we work and live.
“This necessitated the creation of platforms for collaboration to advance the field of IT to maximise its benefits,” she said.
Mr Maruf Ayofe, the state Commissioner for Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy, said the world was undergoing rapid technological advancement.
He said it was critical that Nigeria position itself to harness the immense opportunities that digitalisation offers.
“At this moment in history, technology has the power to be the great equaliser.
“It enables nations and individuals to overcome historical barriers, unlock new opportunities, and participate in the global economy in ways that were once unimaginable.
“As leaders, innovators and key players in Nigeria’s ICT ecosystem, we must seize this moment to ensure that our country not only keeps pace with global trends but also sets new standards for innovation and entrepreneurial success,” he said
In a presentation, Aristotle Onumo, the Director, Stakeholders’ Management, NITDA, announced plans by the agency to train 30 million Nigerians in the formal sector on digital economy between now and 2027.
According to Onumo, about 70 per cent of Nigerians are expected to be digitally literate by 2027, adding that this would result in economic growth of the country.