By James Ishaku
The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has reaffirmed the agency’s unwavering focus on advancing Nigeria’s digital economy through crucial green technology and innovation initiatives.
Inuwa delivered this commitment while speaking at the 3rd Technology Ecosystem Dialogue (TED 2025), an event expertly organised by the Young Innovators of Nigeria (YIN). The dialogue’s timely theme was: “Green Tech and Energy Revolution: Transforming Business and Society.”
Commending YIN for hosting a “timely and visionary dialogue,” the DG praised the group’s consistent efforts in promoting innovation, nurturing young talent, and driving sustainable solutions vital for national development.
“TED 2025 once again proves that Nigeria’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the change-makers of today,” Inuwa stated, highlighting the pivotal role of the country’s young innovators in shaping its future.
He noted that the theme of the event aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on economic diversification through industrialisation, digitisation, creative arts manufacturing, and innovation.
Highlighting NITDA’s interventions to strengthen the technology ecosystem, Inuwa listed several initiatives, including the establishment of Technology and Innovation Hubs across the country, as well as programmes such as iHatch, the National Innovation Challenge, IgniteHer, We Elevate, and Renewed Hope Innovation Nest. He also cited partnerships that foster research and development in frontier technologies like AI, IoT, blockchain, and clean energy.
“These initiatives are designed to ensure that innovation is inclusive—reaching youth, women, and MSMEs across Nigeria—while equipping them with digital tools to create scalable solutions,” he explained.
Inuwa stressed that embracing green technology is not optional but a necessity, urging collaboration between government, industry, academia, and citizens to build a digital, green, and inclusive future.
He assured stakeholders that NITDA is fully committed to partnerships that will enable Nigeria to lead Africa in leveraging green technology for growth, jobs, and sustainable development.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Krakrafaa Bestman, a Sustainability Expert noted that millions of Nigerians still lack reliable electricity, the nation is richly blessed with solar, wind, hydro, and human capital resources. He stressed that these endowments present vast opportunities to bridge the energy gap and stimulate sustainable development.
Outlining Nigeria’s energy transition targets, he pointed to plans to generate 30 percent of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and deploy 5GW of solar capacity. He also referenced ongoing initiatives such as the Nigerian Electrification Project and community-based mini-grids designed to expand access, particularly in rural areas.
Dr Bestman further underscored the importance of adopting circular economy practices, including recycling and waste-to-energy solutions, as a means of reducing pollution while creating new economic opportunities.
For the transition to succeed, Dr. Bestman outlined three priorities: reforms to attract investment and incentivise renewable energy adoption; greater business commitment to clean energy sourcing and community partnerships; and innovations that deliver safe, affordable, and locally adaptable technologies.
He, however, cautioned against the risks associated with renewable energy systems, such as battery hazards and poorly installed solar panels, stressing the need for strict safety standards and comprehensive lifecycle management.
“Green technologies must not only drive businesses but also protect the future,” he declared, urging Nigerians to embrace innovation and collaboration. “The world is waiting for Nigeria’s leadership in building a resilient and sustainable energy system.”
