The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has recorded significant strides in digital technology development, cybersecurity, and strategic partnerships under its current leadership, according to the Citizen Watch Advocacy Initiative (CWAI).
In a statement signed by CWAI’s Director of Media and Stakeholders Engagement, Mahmud Bello, the agency was commended for advancing its mandate of developing, regulating, and advising on information technology in Nigeria.
CWAI noted that since the appointment of NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the agency has been repositioned as a key driver of digital transformation, innovation, and economic development.
It added that NITDA now plays a central role in implementing the National Digital Economy Policy, setting IT standards, promoting local content, and strengthening cybersecurity frameworks.
The organisation stated that the agency has also improved digital literacy and capacity building across the country, while enhancing data protection and collaboration with industry stakeholders.
According to CWAI, Abdullahi recently called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to unlock Nigeria’s digital economy potential. Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting themed “Creating Opportunities, Breaking Boundaries,” he described Nigeria as being at a critical point where digitalisation could drive economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable growth.
The statement further highlighted NITDA’s implementation of its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) and the National Digital Literacy Framework, aimed at equipping citizens with digital skills. It revealed that the agency has established over 100 IT centres nationwide to support learning and innovation.
CWAI also referenced the Director-General’s remarks at the GITEX Africa Summit 2026, where he warned of emerging threats posed by artificial intelligence and stressed the need for a “total resilience” approach to cybersecurity.
Abdullahi, according to the statement, emphasised that cybersecurity is no longer just a technical issue but a national development priority, noting that human error accounts for the majority of digital breaches.
The group said the Federal Government’s National Digital Literacy Programme aims to achieve 95 per cent digital literacy by 2030, with an interim target of 70 per cent by 2027. It added that NITDA is working with several public and private institutions to strengthen national cyber resilience and protect critical infrastructure.
CWAI further commended NITDA’s collaboration with stakeholders, including its engagement with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), which focused on leveraging digital innovation and the Orange Economy for economic growth.
The statement noted that the agency continues to promote innovation through initiatives such as the National Digital Literacy Programme and the “3 Million Tech Talent” programme, aimed at developing skills in cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence.
It also highlighted Abdullahi’s call for increased partnerships at the Nigerian Satellite Week 2026 in Abuja, where he urged stakeholders to drive innovation through collaboration and practical solutions.
CWAI concluded that NITDA’s initiatives and regulatory approach are helping to build a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive digital economy, while encouraging continued support for programmes that empower young innovators and attract investment into Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.