In a strategic push to position Nigeria as Africa’s premier digital services hub, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has signed a landmark agreement with Itana, Nigeria’s first licensed Digital Special Economic Zone (DSEZ) operator.
The partnership, signed under the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP), aims to foster digital trade, attract global technology firms, and create at least 100,000 high-value digital jobs over the next five years.
Backed by development finance from the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), Itana is currently building a $100 million virtual economic zone designed to allow international companies to register remotely and operate virtually in Nigeria without the traditional overhead costs of physical office setups.
Digital Zone, Real Impact
The initiative allows global firms instant access to Nigeria’s vibrant tech talent and market, offering incentives that make it easier to do business in the country. The virtual model is expected to lower market entry barriers and position Nigeria as a top destination for digital innovation on the continent.
Speaking during a tour of Itana’s site in Alaro City Free Zone, Lagos, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, said the collaboration underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to digital transformation and job creation.
“Two years into President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria is boldly charting a reform-driven path to inclusive growth. Itana’s digital zone is part of that future,” she said.
Oduwole noted that the global services market, currently valued at over $1 trillion, presents an enormous opportunity for Nigeria.
“Nigeria is ready to lead Africa’s charge into the global digital economy. With our youthful, English-speaking, and digitally savvy population, we are well-positioned to be the continent’s top destination for technology investment,” she added.
A Gateway for Global Tech Giants
Under the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the federal government has pledged full support for Itana’s goal of becoming the jurisdiction of choice for global tech companies expanding into Africa.
Itana CEO and Co-founder, Luqman Edu, hailed the agreement as a breakthrough moment for Africa’s digital ecosystem.
“This partnership opens the door for international tech firms to seamlessly launch operations in Nigeria,” said Edu. “Itana is designed to remove the friction in doing business here and provide a fast track into Africa’s growing digital economy.”
Edu said the move could redefine Nigeria’s role in the global tech landscape by making it easier for companies to innovate, hire, and scale while helping to unlock the economic potential of the continent.
“Africa is home to some of the world’s youngest and most tech-savvy populations. This partnership ensures Nigeria is not only keeping pace but setting the pace,” he said.
What’s Next?
The digital free zone is part of the federal government’s broader plan to stimulate growth in the non-oil sector, enhance foreign direct investment, and drive inclusive economic development through tech and innovation.
The MoU reaffirms Nigeria’s ambition to become a global hub for digital services exports, leveraging platforms like NATEP and forward-thinking partners like Itana to create the infrastructure and regulatory environment needed for sustained growth.
