The Startup Consultative Forum (SCF) has successfully conducted its election to select representatives for the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE).
The NCDIE serves as the top governing body established under the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA) to steer the country’s startup growth, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship agenda.
Four individuals emerged from the election process to represent different geopolitical zones. They include Mr. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (South West), Mr. Charles Uchenna Emembolu (South East), Mr. Abba Ibrahim Gamawa (North East), and Mrs. Victoria Ojoagefu Manya (North Central).
In a statement signed by Mrs. Hadiza Umar, fnipr, f.apra, mcipr, Director, Corporate Communications and Media Relations at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the election process was coordinated by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) under NITDA.
The statement noted that the exercise was conducted in strict compliance with the provisions of the Nigeria Startup Act, ensuring fairness and transparency.
Following the inauguration of the Startup Consultative Forum earlier in 2025, members from the six geopolitical zones nominated and voted for candidates to represent their regions.
The process, described as transparent and inclusive, reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between public institutions, innovators, and industry stakeholders.
The National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE) is the principal body responsible for implementing the Nigeria Startup Act. It formulates policies, coordinates strategic programmes, and provides oversight that supports the establishment and expansion of innovation-driven businesses across the country.
For the first time, the Council will include democratically elected representatives from the startup community, joining government agencies, investors, regulators, academia, and other critical stakeholders.
NITDA explained that this milestone signifies a new era of inclusive governance in Nigeria’s technology and innovation sector.
The election is also regarded as a major step toward implementing the Nigeria Startup Act, as it allows startup founders to directly participate in shaping policies that affect the growth of digital innovation nationwide.
NITDA stated that the inclusion of startup representatives in the Council would enhance trust between government and innovators, strengthen policy feedback mechanisms, and create a more supportive environment for young entrepreneurs.
The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to promoting collaboration, nurturing startups, and positioning innovation as a key driver of national development and economic transformation.
