On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the Director General of Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, participated as a key panelist in a thought-provoking session titled “Digital Transformation in Africa: Jumping Ten Years in One.” The high-profile event, hosted by the Consulate of Denmark in New York, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and cBrain, brought together global leaders to explore how Africa can harness digital technology to leap ahead in its economic and social transformation.
The panel focused on government-led digital transformation initiatives and best practices that African countries can adopt to accelerate growth. It highlighted the importance of partnerships between the public and private sectors and the immense potential of digital technologies to position Africa as the next frontier for the global workforce. Africa’s young, vibrant population and rapid technology adoption were identified as key drivers for the continent’s potential to lead in the digital age.
In his address, “Kashifu Inuwa shared valuable insights from NITDA’s ongoing digital transformation efforts in Nigeria. He emphasized the agency’s vision of fostering a knowledge-based economy by promoting innovation and technology-driven solutions in governance, education, and business.
“Our focus is on creating an enabling environment for digital innovation,” Inuwa said. “By investing in infrastructure, skills development, and policy frameworks, we are positioning Nigeria as a hub for technology in Africa. Our digital transformation efforts have not only improved efficiency in government services but also created new opportunities for the private sector, especially startups.”
Inuwa noted that Africa’s digital journey is unique, with countries having the opportunity to leapfrog traditional development stages and embrace cutting-edge technology. He also stressed the need for collaboration, both within Africa and with international partners, to ensure sustainable digital growth across the continent.
The panelists agreed that with the right leadership, investment, and partnerships, Africa could harness the full potential of digital technologies, making the continent a leading player in the global digital economy. With initiatives like NITDA’s, African nations can navigate the digital future effectively, ensuring inclusivity and long-term development.
This event at the UNGA was a reminder of the critical role digital transformation plays in driving not only economic progress but also social change across Africa. As technology continues to evolve, the continent’s commitment to digital innovation and collaboration is set to propel it into a new era of growth and prosperity.
BY ANTHONY ADA ABRAHAM
