The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s partnership with the United States on key digital priorities, including data privacy, artificial intelligence (AI), capacity building, and cybersecurity. Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of NITDA, made the remarks during the Nigeria Data Privacy Capacity Building Workshop organised by the U.S. Department of State in Abuja on Wednesday.
The workshop, held in collaboration with the Nigerian Mission and stakeholders in the digital ecosystem, highlighted the growing cooperation between Nigeria and the U.S. to tackle emerging digital challenges. Inuwa noted that the partnership, which began formally through the U.S.–Nigeria Binational Commission in April 2024, reflects a shared commitment to advancing digital development, innovation, and trust in the digital space.
“In our digital era, trust is a critical enabler of innovation,” Inuwa said. “Without trust, growth slows and costs rise, but with trust, digital transformation accelerates. Our focus on AI, data privacy, and cybersecurity is about building that trust.” He emphasized that AI relies heavily on data, and safeguarding data privacy requires robust security measures, underlining the need for collaborative solutions.
Looking ahead, NITDA plans to expand the National Cybersecurity Conference into an international platform, inviting U.S. cybersecurity companies to showcase technologies and partner with Nigerian firms. Inuwa described the workshop as the starting point for broader engagements, aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem while building local capacity for homegrown digital solutions.
Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic role in Africa’s digital future, Inuwa stressed the importance of leveraging the country’s young, tech-savvy population. “Digital technology is no longer optional—it is the engine of economic growth,” he said. “By promoting privacy, establishing sound policies, and investing in AI responsibly, Nigeria can harness the opportunities of the ongoing technological revolution and shape its own digital destiny.”
source: Business day