Key objectives of this agenda include enhancing public service delivery through smart technologies, fortifying digital education infrastructure, boosting national cybersecurity resilience, supporting cloud adoption, and optimizing government technology costs.
In a move to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is deepening its strategic partnership with Google. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of NITDA, recently accompanied Marcus Jadotte, Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy (Cloud) at Google, and his delegation on a series of high-level engagements with key Nigerian government officials.
The partnership tour included significant meetings with prominent figures such as the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; the Honourable Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa; and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
These strategic discussions are in direct alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which champions the use of digitalization to foster economic and societal development. Key objectives of this agenda include enhancing public service delivery through smart technologies, fortifying digital education infrastructure, boosting national cybersecurity resilience, supporting cloud adoption, and optimizing government technology costs.
A core focus of the collaboration is the modernization of Nigeria’s education system. This will involve integrating digital tools, leveraging AI-enhanced learning platforms, and implementing skills training programs designed to prepare students for future digital careers. The aim is to bridge the existing skills gap and cultivate a workforce ready for the demands of the digital age.
Both NITDA and Google reaffirmed their shared vision of positioning Nigeria as a regional leader in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity across West Africa. This foundational work is intended to pave the way for a secure, inclusive, and innovative digital economy within the country.
Furthermore, the strengthened partnership is expected to yield several significant benefits, including:
- Reducing public sector technology expenditure.
- Boosting national workforce productivity.
- Improving governance and public service efficiency.
- Strengthening national security through digital intelligence.
- Attracting foreign investment to drive sustainable economic impact.
