TechPression

Tag: NITDA

  • NITDA, Japanese agency launch iHatch Cohort 4 to empower 185 startups

    NITDA, Japanese agency launch iHatch Cohort 4 to empower 185 startups

    Nigeria’s startup landscape is exciting as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) announced the launch of iHatch Cohort 4 on Sunday. 

    This initiative aims to empower innovators and entrepreneurs nationwide, providing them with essential resources and training to transform their ideas into successful businesses.

    Read also: DSN partners NITDA, TikTok to promote safety for kids

    iHatch 4: Nurturing Nigerian innovation

    iHatch Cohort 4 is designed to support 185 startups and 37 innovation hubs throughout Nigeria. The program will run from October 2024 until January 2025 and will offer tailored training, mentorship, and investment readiness programs. 

    According to NITDA’s national coordinator, “iHatch Cohort 4 will empower innovators with knowledge and resources to turn ideas into impactful businesses”. This commitment reflects a broader goal of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s dynamic market.

    The initiative is particularly timely as Nigeria continues to face economic challenges. By focusing on startups, iHatch aims to stimulate job creation and economic growth. Participants will benefit from workshops that cover various aspects of business development, including technology integration, marketing strategies, and financial management. This comprehensive approach ensures that startups are equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills that can be applied in real-world scenarios.

    Global expertise fuels Nigerian innovation

    The collaboration between NITDA and JICA highlights the importance of international partnerships in driving local innovation. JICA’s involvement brings a wealth of experience in supporting startups globally, which will be invaluable for Nigerian entrepreneurs. The program is expected to create a vibrant ecosystem where startups can thrive through shared knowledge and resources.

    As Umar, a representative from NITDA, noted, “This program is a significant step towards nurturing the next generation of innovators in Nigeria”. Focusing on innovation hubs is also crucial, as these centres are incubators for new ideas and technologies. By supporting these hubs, iHatch Cohort 4 aims to create a collaboration network among startups, fostering an environment where creativity can flourish.

    Launching iHatch Cohort 4 is not just about economic growth; it represents a shift in how Nigeria views its innovation potential. With the proper support and resources, local entrepreneurs can compete globally. The initiative encourages young innovators to dream big and gives them the tools they need to succeed.

    Read also: AfriTECH 4.0: Blockchain and AI key to Africa’s digital future, says NITDA DG

    Applications now open

    Applications are now open for both startups and innovation hubs. 

    The iHatch Cohort 4 program is a hope for Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. 

    Through training and mentoring, NITDA and JICA are preparing innovators for success. It would be intriguing to see how these entrepreneurs use their newfound expertise to boost Nigeria’s economy in the following months.

    Interested applicants can apply via the official iHatch website.

  • NITDA, TikTok push for online safety and digital literacy in Nigeria with “Safer Together” campaign

    NITDA, TikTok push for online safety and digital literacy in Nigeria with “Safer Together” campaign

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has collaborated with TikTok to launch “Safer Together” campaign, as a demonstration of its commitment to advancing the online safety of Nigerians.

    Speaking at Tiktok Online Safety and Digital Awareness Program in Abuja on Thursday, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Abdullahi stressed the significance of establishing a safe and welcoming digital environment.

    The event, held in partnership with NITDA and Data Science Nigeria, aims to bolster the initiative’s influence in Abuja, Lagos, and other states.

    Read  also: DSN partners NITDA, TikTok to promote safety for kids

    DG Abdullahi, represented by Ahmed Tambuwa, acting Director, Digital Literacy and Capacity Building, emphasised that Nigeria is a leader in the continent’s digital revolution because it has one of Africa’s largest tech ecosystems, a growing number of digital startups, and a population that is becoming more connected.

    “As we delve into the intersection of Nigeria’s evolving technological landscape and the paramount importance of online safety and digital well-being, Nigeria is at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation with one of the continent’s largest tech ecosystems, burgeoning digital startups, and an increasingly connected population,” he said on Thursday.

    “Our country is experiencing a digital revolution that promises to reshape every facet of our society,” he noted.

    Government efforts despite drawbacks 

    Widespread connectivity has been made possible by government programs like the Nigerian National Broadband Plan and the development of digital infrastructure.

    Mr Tambuwa admitted that Nigeria’s digital growth came with challenges that include false information, cyberbullying, and online exploitation.

    NITDA implemented a regulatory intelligence structure that places a premium on awareness, intelligence, and dynamism to allay these worries. The framework aims to promote diversity and creativity while balancing the hazards connected to digital technologies.

    He noted that TikTok’s Safer Together campaign, which aims to educate parents, educators, and other stakeholders about digital safety, supports NITDA’s efforts.

    TikTok’s proactive approach to user safety, especially with features like screen time monitoring and anti-bullying tools, was praised by the DG.

    The DG added, “Achieving digital wellness requires a multi-stakeholder approach, involving government, private sector players like TikTok, educators, parents, and civil society.

    “Together, we must expand digital literacy, so we must equip our citizens to be digitally literate. For us at NITDA, we have a target to ensure that 70 per cent of Nigerians are digitally literate by 2027.

    “This will greatly help to achieve our objectives of transforming Nigeria into a digital economy, without a digitally literate population, that cannot be achieved. Secondly, to enhance regulatory collaboration. And thirdly, to empower the youth.”

    He urged all parties involved to support the Safer Together campaign in his closing remarks, saying that the combined efforts of all participants today would influence the digital lives of millions of Nigerians.

    Read also: AfriTECH 4.0: Blockchain and AI key to Africa’s digital future, says NITDA DG

    TikTok calls for concerted efforts to promote online safety 

    Tiktok’s Head of Public Policy/Government Relations West Africa, Tokunbo Ibrahim, emphasised the importance of teamwork in establishing a more secure online environment.

    Ibrahim clarified that TikTok’s overarching goal of encouraging creativity and joy in a safe online space is reflected in the Safer Together campaign.

    “Safer Together really means working together,” Ibrahim said. “The public, TikTok, the government—everyone has a role to play in keeping the internet safe. One party alone cannot achieve this goal.”

    Ibrahim urged all stakeholders to support the project, noting that TikTok was dedicated to encouraging safety, trust, and responsible digital interaction.

  • DSN partners NITDA, TikTok to promote safety for kids

    DSN partners NITDA, TikTok to promote safety for kids

    Data Science Nigeria (DSN) in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and TikTok will hold a one-day physical workshop with parents, guardians and educators at the D’podium International Event Centre, Ikeja, Lagos on November 19 and Barcelona Hotels International, Wuse 2, FCT, Abuja on November 21.

    The workshop aims to increase the participants’ knowledge of digital wellness, online safety, and TikTok’s security measures for young users, particularly minors.

    The program is designed to equip them with the practical knowledge and resources they need to navigate and support a safe online environment for their kids.

    Read also: Data Scientists Network to train teachers on data analysis

    The extensive workshop will cover crucial subjects such as disinformation, cyberbullying, privacy, and digital citizenship.

    TikTok crackdown on under-age users 

    TikTok’s Community Guidelines Enforcement Report published in September, showed 57,262 Kenyan accounts and 137,663 South African accounts that were suspected to belong to users under the age of 13 were banned.

    Over 20.2 million accounts were deleted worldwide for allegedly being used by minors.

    Enforcing age restrictions became a top priority during the cleanup, to douse concerns regarding the safety of young users on the video-sharing app.

    This action demonstrates TikTok’s continued dedication to maintaining a secure environment in accordance with the company regulations, particularly for younger users.

    In recent months, TikTok has improved its privacy safeguards, especially to comply with international regulations protecting children’s privacy.

    Read also: Snapchat allows parents to track teens with new location-sharing feature

    Incentives to attend the event 

    To encourage massive participation, DSN has offered incentives to the first one hundred people to register and attend the event.

    “Join us to learn how to protect and guide the younger generation in today’s digital age.

    “Special Offer: Be among the first 100 participants to register and attend the event to receive a travel grant within the state and an airtime voucher!” it stated on its registration portal.

    The registration portal can be accessed through the link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdUdN2Z7wgnYJlVJC4Qoz6nb614HlysR4DW7k2Btlzx50QJ9w/viewform

  • AfriTECH 4.0: Blockchain and AI key to Africa’s digital future, says NITDA DG

    AfriTECH 4.0: Blockchain and AI key to Africa’s digital future, says NITDA DG

    Africa’s potential to become a global technology leader took centre stage at the Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH 4.0) in Lagos, Nigeria. Themed “Harnessing Fintech Solutions for Financial Inclusion & eCommerce Growth,” the event showcased the transformative role of blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital infrastructure in advancing Africa’s digital economy.

    Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in his keynote address titled “Blockchain Technology & AI: Positioning Africa for the Future,” highlighted Africa’s unique position to leverage emerging technologies.

    Read also: NITDA releases guidelines on protecting WhatsApp accounts from hackers

    Represented by Mrs Rita Shoremi, Head of Startup Innovations and IT Solutions, NITDA South West Zone, Mr Abdullahi said, “Both blockchain and artificial intelligence are powerful technologies that offer Africa unprecedented opportunities. By strategically integrating these technologies, we can propel Africa forward as a dynamic leader in the global digital economy.”

    Mr Abdullahi further noted that Africa is ripe for digital transformation, with mobile penetration reaching 80 percent and over 60 percent of the continent’s population under age 25. He emphasised blockchain’s ability to address financial inclusion, governance, and property rights, estimating that the technology could add $300 billion to Africa’s GDP by 2025.

    Tackling challenges in the digital economy

    Dr Obadare Peter Adewale, Chief Visionary Officer of Digital Encode Limited, explored the intersection of blockchain, AI, cryptocurrency, and cybersecurity. Represented by Oluwakayode Olatunji, Group Head of Information Security, Adewale warned that while these technologies are transformative, they also introduce risks such as cyberattacks and data breaches. “A robust cybersecurity framework is crucial for sustainable digital transformation,” he cautioned, urging stakeholders to prioritise security as they adopt emerging technologies.

    Financial inclusion was another primary focus of the forum. Mr Biram Fall, Regional General Manager of QNET Sub-Saharan Africa, noted that with over 350 million unbanked adults, Africa’s digital solutions have significant potential. Fall emphasised the importance of initiatives like QNET’s “Fit Green” financial literacy program, which has trained over 1,500 young Nigerians and fosters entrepreneurship and economic independence through e-commerce-driven models.

    “The demand for financial inclusion aligns with a projected $75 billion e-commerce market in Africa by 2025, driven by rising internet access and smartphone adoption,” Fall added.

    Read also: Lagos launches second phase of digital skills training, targets one million youths by 2030

    Building sustainable digital infrastructure

    Prof Ibrahim Adeyanju, Managing Director of Galaxy Backbone, stressed the need for a robust infrastructure to support Africa’s digital ambitions. Represented by Mr Nnamdi Onoh, Field Service Engineer, Mr Adeyanju stated, “Africa’s digital journey presents immense opportunities, but it requires robust, scalable, and sustainable infrastructure to enable economic growth.”

    Galaxy Backbone’s investments in state-of-the-art data centres, fibre optic networks, and secure cloud solutions create a digital backbone supporting government services and businesses across Nigeria.

    Mrs Ebehijie Momoh, CEO of AfriGoPay Financial Services Limited, highlighted Nigeria’s rapid progress in financial inclusion, with the rate rising to 64 percent in 2023. “The advent of domestic payment solutions like the AfriGo card reduces costs by processing transactions in local currency, thereby supporting the nation’s financial inclusion goals,” she noted.

  • NITDA releases guidelines on protecting WhatsApp accounts from hackers

    NITDA releases guidelines on protecting WhatsApp accounts from hackers

    To help Nigerian WhatsApp users safeguard their accounts against hacking and unauthorised access, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has released a thorough guideline.

    Both individuals and group administrators can follow the instructions outlined in these guidelines to prevent and address account breaches.

    The recommendations follow increased worries about cyberattacks that target social media sites and messaging apps, particularly WhatsApp given its widespread use.

    NITDA highlights the significance of maintaining vigilance when using the app to guarantee security and protect personal data.

    “WhatsApp is a powerful communication tool, but like any digital platform, it requires you to stay vigilant. Follow these simple yet crucial steps to ensure your security and protect your information,” the agency stated.

    Read also: Equatorial Guinea restricts WhatsApp after leaked sex videos of top official

    How to recover your hacked WhatsApp accounts

    According to NITDA, users should take immediate action to recover control of their WhatsApp account if they believe it has been compromised. Logging out of all devices to disconnect any unauthorised users is one of the first things that should be done.

    “Logging out all devices can help limit unauthorised access and give users back control of their accounts,” NITDA stated.

    Users are advised to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp to get a new verification code. Setting up two-step verification as soon as possible after regaining access is crucial, according to NITDA, since it provides an additional layer of protection against any future hacks.

    “Two-step verification is one of the most effective measures in preventing unauthorised access,” NITDA said.

    To stop possible phishing attempts, NITDA advises compromised individuals to alert their contacts. Notifying contacts is essential to stopping the spread of any false information or links that can endanger other users.

    Hacked users were further advised to go over recent conversations for any odd messages or activities. NITDA advises getting in touch with WhatsApp Support directly if the issue persists or recovery proves challenging.

    How WhatsApp group admins can protect group chats from hacking 

    The NITDA advice gives WhatsApp group admins detailed instructions on how to protect group chats, particularly in cases where a group member’s account has been hacked.

    To stop any unauthorised content from spreading, administrators are urged to remove compromised members from the group right away if their accounts are compromised. Notifying group members about the hijacked account is essential, according to NITDA, since it helps spread knowledge and motivates members to exercise caution when clicking on dubious links or messages.

    Administrators are also urged to contact the affected member via other means of communication to notify them about the incident and provide instructions for getting their account back.

    NITDA emphasises how important it is to use WhatsApp’s recovery mechanisms, like the “Forgot PIN” and “Request Support” choices. Group administrators can also report the hijacked account to WhatsApp for help if necessary.

    Read also: Zimbabwe: ICT minister denies plan to license WhatsApp group admins for $2500

    How to protect your WhatsApp account from hacking 

    NITDA made some suggestions to help all WhatsApp users improve the security of their accounts and reduce the risk of hacks.

    A major recommendation is to enable two-step verification. This feature, which can be accessed via WhatsApp’s security settings, provides an essential extra degree of security.

    NITDA advises users to be cautious when clicking on links and files from contacts they haven’t verified because doing so can expose their devices to malware and phishing scams.

    Another important suggestion is to update the WhatsApp app regularly. Users who update are guaranteed to have the most recent security patches installed, which fix vulnerabilities that hackers could take advantage of.

    To limit who can view their profile picture, status, and last seen, NITDA also suggests that users modify their privacy settings. By doing this, exposure to unidentified people who might misuse such information can be reduced.

    Users should never divulge their verification codes to third parties, especially those impersonating WhatsApp support or other reliable services, as an extra precaution.

    In conclusion, NITDA advises users to stay away from using WhatsApp on unprotected networks because public Wi-Fi networks are more susceptible to data intrusions.

  • Inside Nigeria’s game plan to dominate GITEX 2025

    Inside Nigeria’s game plan to dominate GITEX 2025

    As Nigeria gears up to host GITEX in September 2025, the country’s technology ecosystem is mobilising to ensure that the event boosts the tech landscape and showcases the vast potential of Nigerian startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

    Key stakeholders, including the Lagos State Government, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and members of the Nigerian House of Assembly, are at the helm of this effort, putting comprehensive plans in place to ensure the event’s success.

    Read also: NITDA, KAOUN plans to launch GITEX Nigeria

    NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi reassured attendees during a breakfast meeting on the sidelines of GITEX Global in Dubai, that Nigeria is poised to make GITEX 2025 a landmark event. Abdullahi emphasised that the country’s tech agenda closely aligns with global trends, focusing on economic growth through digital innovation.

    He highlighted Nigeria’s current drive to enhance productivity through technology: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a pro-business president, and he has mandated our ministry to accelerate the Nigerian economic growth by enhancing productivity in critical sectors through technological innovation.”

    Abdullahi underscored the significance of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy’s key initiatives—the 3 Million Technical Talent Programme. This initiative, which aims to equip 3 million Nigerians with digital skills, has been set up to empower the country’s workforce and significantly boost local startups and SMEs. With a skilled workforce, these businesses will be better positioned to compete on the global stage, expanding their reach and potential.

    Lagos as a tech hub for Africa

    Lagos state, already a recognised leader in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, is gearing  to play a critical role in the GITEX Nigeria event. Olatunbosun Alake, Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, emphasised that Lagos will be a key player in the upcoming event, leveraging its unique position as a leading African tech hub. With 80-90 percent of Nigeria’s startup ecosystem based in Lagos, the state is an ideal showcase for the innovation and progress that have taken place in the Nigerian tech sector.

    Alake noted that “Lagos is the fifth or sixth largest economy in Africa if it were a country on its own, and 80 to 90 percent of the startup ecosystem resides in Lagos.” His remarks highlight the scale of opportunity that GITEX Nigeria offers, both for local businesses looking to connect with international investors and partners and for foreign entities seeking to engage with the thriving tech community in Lagos.

    Collaboration and opportunities for growth

    In addition to discussing Nigeria’s digital workforce development, Abdullahi called for collaboration between the public and private sectors to enhance Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. He acknowledged the challenges but reiterated the country’s determination to harness the opportunities presented by the digital revolution. Nigeria missed out on the first and second industrial revolutions, but now, with strategic investments in technology, the country is well-positioned to take full advantage of the global shift towards digital transformation.

    Read also: Zambian fintech Lupiya wins GITEX Africa supernova challenge

    In particular, GITEX Nigeria 2025 will provide a platform for startups and SMEs to showcase their innovations, forge international partnerships, and gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies. With government initiatives like the Art of Technology (AOT) already fostering young talent in the state, Lagos is primed to offer the global stage a glimpse into its growing tech prowess. The city’s innovation ecosystem will be on full display, providing both local and international businesses with a chance to collaborate and grow.

    GITEX Nigeria 2025: A new horizon for African businesses

    For African startups and SMEs, GITEX Nigeria presents a significant opportunity to engage with global stakeholders. The event is expected to attract investors, tech leaders, and innovators from across the world, providing Nigerian businesses with a platform to not only expand their reach but also gain insights into new technologies that could drive further growth.

    As Nigeria prepares to host GITEX 2025, the focus remains clear: to position the country as a digital leader in Africa, creating a thriving environment where startups and SMEs can flourish. Through strategic collaboration, workforce development, and global exposure, the stage is set for Nigerian innovation to take centre stage.

  • Technovate Fest 2024: Stakeholders push for inclusive AI solutions to Africa’s challenges at Technovate Fest 2024

    Technovate Fest 2024: Stakeholders push for inclusive AI solutions to Africa’s challenges at Technovate Fest 2024

    Nigeria’s tech enthusiasts defied the torrential rainfall to attend the inaugural Technovate Fest 2024, themed “AI for Africa: Addressing Continental Challenges, Driving Sustainable Innovations,” which was held in Lagos last Thursday.

    Dr Pelumi Apantaku, managing director of Techpression Media Ltd, who delivered the welcome address, emphasised the critical role of AI in modern life and its potential to reshape the African narrative.

    “The reason artificial intelligence is key is that interest in it is growing worldwide, and we are only at the beginning stages of unlocking its potential,” the Techpression boss stated. “Like the internet, AI has become a pervasive technology that will influence all aspects of our lives.”

    Read also: TECHNOVATE FEST 2024: Addressing Africa’s challenges with AI-based solutions

    Dr Apantaku reaffirmed Techpression’s commitment to ensure that Africa’s stories regarding AI innovations were properly reported.

    “We have always been at the forefront of reporting on artificial intelligence and telling African stories, which is key for our company,” he stated.

    Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), echoed similar sentiments, adding that AI has an “immense potential” to solve Africa’s socio-economic challenges.

    “AI is redefining industries at an unprecedented pace. In healthcare, agriculture, and beyond, the technology has immense potential to solve problems that have long plagued our continent,” said the NITDA DG who was represented by Jumoke Alaka, the agency’s South West Zonal manager.

    “For Nigeria and Africa, the challenge is not just to adopt AI but to strategically integrate it into our systems, turning constraints into opportunities,” she added.

    Advocating for Inclusive AI Development

    Ade Oyeyipo, founding partner of Lightworld Media House, addressed the theme “Inclusive Innovation: Bridging the Gap for Persons with Disabilities in Africa’s AI-driven transformation”

    He stressed the need for datasets that accurately represent African realities and the importance of inclusivity in AI development, stating, “Inclusion is paying attention to everybody’s needs.”

    Read also: Ibadan Tech Expo recognises 1App Technologies as fintech leader

    “Inclusion in our everyday lives is what we need to imbibe in our organisations, businesses and institutions,” he explained.

    Mr Oyeyipo bemoaned the dearth of sufficient data that is tailored to the African people, especially those of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).

    “Machine learning can perform deep learning through the dataset that is provided,” he said.

    He said it was already terrible that there were no images or films depicting Nigerian sign languages or the portrayal of Africa online, and that he’s had several instances where Meta AI could not provide the accurate depiction of the African material he was seeking.

    He acknowledged the necessity for a dataset that reflects PLWD and African realities.

    According to Mr Oyeyipo, AI had scant information about the African continent because it had not yet been exposed to African content.

  • Closing the digital gap: Nigeria’s disabled community asks NITDA for a seat at the table

    Closing the digital gap: Nigeria’s disabled community asks NITDA for a seat at the table

    The Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) has urged the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other key stakeholders to prioritise the needs of persons with disabilities as Nigeria transitions into a fully digital economy.

    This appeal was made during the Consultative Forum on Digital Literacy for Women and Girls with Disabilities, which was held on Thursday, October 17, in Abuja. The conversation focused on bridging the digital divide for marginalised communities.

    Read also: Hackathon: NITDA, ECOWAS empower West African youths to protect continent’s cyberspace

    Persistent Gaps in Accessibility

    Grace Jerry, the Executive Director of IFA, emphasised that despite national disability rights laws and agencies, significant gaps remain in the accessibility and inclusivity of digital resources. 

    “These gaps severely hinder the quality of life for persons with disabilities, especially in the realm of digital literacy,” Jerry said.

    She highlighted the critical issue facing the community, explaining that access to digital tools and skills is often limited, further excluding persons with disabilities from the digital economy.

    “In line with global trends, up to 90 percent of persons with disabilities in Nigeria live in abject poverty,” Jerry added, stressing the urgent need for a more inclusive digital framework that addresses the unique challenges faced by these individuals.

    The Urgency of Digital Literacy for Women and Girls with Disabilities

    Citing a 2023 study by Tech4Dev, Jerry revealed a stark statistic: 61 percent of women and girls with disabilities in Nigeria lack the basic skills to operate essential digital devices, such as simply turning a computer on or off. This statistic, according to Jerry, underscores the urgency for intervention.

    Jerry called for NITDA and other relevant government agencies to incorporate persons with disabilities—particularly women and girls—into Nigeria’s National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF).

    She stressed the importance of revising this framework to ensure inclusivity, especially as the country aims to achieve 95 percent digital literacy by 2030.

    “Persons with disabilities must be at the centre of the digital literacy drive,” she stated, urging inclusive budgeting and strategic initiatives to close the growing digital divide.

    Read also: Nigeria partners with Cisco to enhance cybersecurity

    Collaborative Efforts Needed for Tailored Digital Programs

    The Inclusive Friends Association  recommended a collaborative approach between NITDA, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), and various disability organisations to develop digital literacy programs tailored to meet the needs of the disabled community.

    Jerry restated that if Nigeria is to reach its ambitious goal of 95 percent digital literacy by 2030, the government must urgently address the unique challenges faced by persons living with disabilities. This is especially important for women and  young girls, who remain the most vulnerable in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

    By focusing on inclusivity, Nigeria can ensure that no one is left behind as it pursues its digital transformation agenda.

  • Hackathon: NITDA, ECOWAS empower West African youths to protect continent’s cyberspace

    Hackathon: NITDA, ECOWAS empower West African youths to protect continent’s cyberspace

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have collaborated with other key stakeholders to strengthen the cybersecurity skills of West African youths, a critical move to safeguard the region’s digital infrastructure.

    This initiative is a strategic response to the growing threat of cybercrime in West Africa.

    ECOWAS Commission President Dr Omar Alieu Touray emphasised the urgency of this collaboration, stating that it is vital to secure the region’s cyberspace against the rising tide of cybercriminal activities.

    Read also: Nigeria partners with Cisco to enhance cybersecurity

    A hackathon for talent and regional security

    “The Hackathon challenge provides a crucial platform for identifying talent and supporting young individuals eager to engage with new technologies,” said Dr Touray as he addressed participants at the close of the 3rd ECOWAS Regional Cybersecurity Hackathon Challenge 2024 in Abuja. 

    The event, organised by ECOWAS and NITDA, drew participation from nations across West Africa, with government functionaries, private sector players, academic icons, and cybersecurity enthusiasts all coming together to confront the region’s most pressing digital threats.

    Touray, represented by Ambassador Sediko Douka, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalisation at the ECOWAS Commission, stressed the importance of equipping West African youth with up-to-date cybersecurity knowledge. 

    “By enhancing the cyber workforce, we contribute not only to the region’s stability but also to its security. In an era where cyber threats are constantly evolving, staying ahead of the curve is imperative,” he said.

    NITDA-ECOWAS bridging the skills gap with cybersecurity hackathons

    The two-day hackathon challenge was a learning experience, as participants were exposed to cutting-edge cybersecurity techniques, hands-on training, and valuable lessons that would fortify their skill sets.

    Touray lauded the event as a critical step toward building a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem in West Africa, reiterating ECOWAS’s commitment to global efforts to protect digital assets and privacy.

    “The hackathon is not just about winning prizes; it’s about building a robust, resilient cyberspace that can withstand evolving threats,” said the Presidentof the ECOWAS Commission. 

    Read also: AI and strategic collaborations will transform Africa’s future says NITDA DG

    Representing NITDA, Director of IT Infrastructure Solutions Oladejo Olawumi emphasised the need for initiatives like the hackathon to harness the talents of young people in the fight against cybercrime. 

    “It’s very interesting to see healthy competition in the technology sector, and that’s why we’re committed to channelling the energy of our youth towards constructive solutions. By doing so, we prevent them from being lured into cybercrime,” Olawumi said.

    Olawumi reaffirmed NITDA’s dedication to supporting future events that foster cybersecurity innovation, particularly as the collaboration between governments, academia, and the private sector plays a crucial role in the battle against digital threats.

    This year’s hackathon saw participation from 12 West African countries, including Mauritania, with the top three teams receiving cash prizes and laptops. 

    The Nigerian team, ERROR, placed third, earning $6,000 and laptops for each team member. The M3V7R team from Benin Republic secured second place, winning $8,000 and laptops, while the first prize of $10,000 went to Cote d’Ivoire’s Shell X Roots.

    As West Africa continues to confront growing cyber threats, initiatives like the hackathon are critical for building a more secure digital future. By investing in the region’s youth and nurturing a culture of cybersecurity, ECOWAS and NITDA are setting the stage for a safer, more resilient cyberspace.

  • AI and strategic collaborations will transform Africa’s future says NITDA DG

    AI and strategic collaborations will transform Africa’s future says NITDA DG

    The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has reaffirmed the vital role Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play in tackling Africa’s most pressing socio-economic challenges. 

    Mr Inuwa made this known during the maiden edition Technovate Fest 2024, themed AI for Africa: Addressing continental challenges, driving sustainable innovations. The event, hosted by Techpression Media at The Zone in Gbagada, Lagos, brought together government functionaries, industry experts, academics, tech enthusiasts, professionals, and disability rights stakeholders to discuss Africa’s future in tech innovation.

    Represented by Jumoke Alaka, Manager of NITDA’s South-West Zonal Office, Mr Inuwa highlighted the transformative power of AI in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education. 

    “AI is redefining industries at an unprecedented pace. In healthcare, agriculture, and beyond, the technology has immense potential to solve problems that have long plagued our continent,” Mr Inuwa said at Technovate Fest 2024. “For Nigeria and Africa, the challenge is not just to adopt AI but to strategically integrate it into our systems, turning constraints into opportunities.”

    Read also: NITDA DG calls for Africa’s active participation in AI governance

    How AI is transforming healthcare and agriculture

    Speaking at the event, Mr Inuwa enumerated real-life instances of AI’s impact across the continent. In healthcare, he mentioned how AI is being deployed to monitor maternal health risks and predict disease outbreaks, directly improving patient outcomes and saving lives. 

    “AI-driven diagnostic tools and predictive analytics are addressing disparities in healthcare access, helping underserved regions receive critical services,” Mr Inuwa explained.

    AI’potential of AI extends far beyond healthcare. In agriculture, AI-powered solutions are helping farmers optimise planting cycles, water usage, and crop yields, contributing to food security and economic growth. Inuwa described these innovations as part of a larger vision for AI’s role in building sustainable, tech-driven economies in Africa. “Precision farming, backed by AI-driven models, is transforming agricultural productivity and providing data-driven solutions to long-standing challenges,” Mr Inuwa highlighted.

    NITDA’s Commitment to AI Innovation

    NITDA, under Mr Inuwa’s leadership, is spearheading efforts to position Nigeria as a leader in AI adoption and innovation. The agency has established the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), a research hub designed to advance AI development in Nigeria and train the next generation of innovators.

    “Our mission is to build a robust AI ecosystem in Nigeria through research, innovation, and capacity building,” Inuwa said. “We are investing in AI literacy across sectors to empower not only the current workforce but also the entrepreneurs who will drive future innovations.”

    Read also: Nigeria’s NITDA wins Coursera Global Impact Award for enhancing digital skills

    Inuwa also emphasised NITDA’s work in establishing regulatory frameworks to ensure that AI development adheres to ethical standards, including transparency, data privacy, and cybersecurity. “Ethical AI is non-negotiable. We are actively developing policies that ensure AI technologies are fair and accessible to all Nigerians,” he added.

    As the Technovate Fest continued with sessions on inclusive AI-driven solutions and African innovation, Mr Inuwa’s message was clear: collaboration is key. He urged public and private sector stakeholders, as well as international partners, to work together to harness AI’s full potential for Africa’s development.

    “The future of Africa’s digital economy will be shaped by how well we integrate AI into our industries and societies. With strategic collaboration, we can ensure that AI not only drives economic growth but also creates a more equitable and sustainable future for all.”