Nestlé Nigeria Plc has marked a major milestone in its Water Regeneration Project with the commissioning of eight climate-smart boreholes and water treatment plants in communities within the Agbara catchment in Ogun State. These facilities form part of a wider programme spanning the Agbara catchment in Ogun State and the Abaji catchment in the Federal Capital Territory. The Water Regeneration Project is structured around four connected pillars: Water Access, delivered through 24 climate-smart boreholes-eight in Agbara and 16 in Abaji; Water Quality, supported by treatment plants, routine monitoring, the National Water Quality Advocacy Campaign and practical water safety guidance; Water…
Author: Lilian Azuh
…Company joins SON’s World Standards Day Walk to promote safety, reliability and confidence in energy solutions L-R: Babatunde Ali- Jamara production technical manager, Abu Ochechema-Quality Manager JMG/Jamara, Fouad El Chami-Plant Manager JMG/Jamara, Eyinade Abimbola-Production manager Jamara and last is Abdwahab Isa-Assembly Manager JMG. As Nigeria continues to pursue more affordable and cleaner energy, the quality of the equipment and systems supporting this transition deserves greater attention. Access to energy is important, but so is ensuring that the solutions deployed are safe, reliable and capable of delivering the performance expected of them. This was the message highlighted by JMG Limited, a…
Director General National Information Technology Development Agency NITDA Kashifu Inuwa CCIE delivering a remark during the Launch of National Digital Literacy Dashboard. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with 251 other reporting organisations, has recorded 2,769,512 digital literacy training achievements across Nigeria in the last three years, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to equip citizens with the skills needed to participate in the digital economy. The figure, representing 5.54 per cent of the target of reaching 50 million beneficiaries by 2027, was disclosed through the National Digital Literacy Dashboard unveiled at the 2026 National Digital Literacy Workshop in Abuja. The dashboard shows that 252 organisations are actively reporting their digital literacy interventions, with activities covering all 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory and all 774 local government areas. The initiative, spearheaded by NITDA under its Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) programme, is designed to expand access to digital competencies through partnerships with government institutions, technology companies, educational institutions, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders. NITDA DirectorGeneral, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, speaking at the workshop, said Nigeria’s greatest resource was its human capital, stressing that deliberate investment in digital capabilities was essential to improving productivity and creating economic opportunities. Digital literacy had become as fundamental as reading, writing and numeracy, particularly as technology and artificial intelligence continued to transform how people learn, work, communicate, trade and access public services, he said. “Our ambition is not to turn every Nigerian into an IT professional. Our ambition is to make every Nigerian digitally capable,” Inuwa said. He explained that the objective was to enable Nigerians to use digital tools to improve their existing occupations, citing the potential for traders to manage business records and receive digital payments, farmers to access weather forecasts and market information, teachers to improve classroom learning, and public servants to deliver more efficient services. According to the dashboard, young people below the age of 35 account for 2,092,697 of the reported beneficiaries, while informal-sector workers constitute 1,609,183. Female participation stands at 32.9 per cent, while the platform records 65,767 beneficiaries from rural communities and 17,156 persons with disabilities. The figures highlight both the scale of the ongoing interventions and the need to strengthen inclusion, particularly for women, rural residents and persons with disabilities. The dashboard further identifies companies as the largest category of reporting organisations, accounting for 151 of the 252 participants, or 59.9 per cent. Government institutions account for 43 organisations, non-governmental organisations 34, while cooperatives, community organisations and other entities make up the remainder. Among the leading contributors, Cisco recorded 1,073,604 training achievements, followed by NITDA with 960,424 and Meta Platforms Inc. with 333,816. Other contributors include Imo Digital City Limited, the Sokoto State Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy, the Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy, and state technology agencies in Jigawa, Kaduna and Zamfara, as well as the Centre for Information Technology and Development. Inuwa said the launch of the National Digital Literacy Dashboard marked an important step towards coordinating interventions, identifying underserved communities and ensuring that investments in digital skills produced measurable outcomes. He noted that the absence of coordinated reporting had sometimes resulted in organisations delivering similar interventions in the same communities while other areas remained underserved. “At NITDA, we see our role as an ecosystem orchestrator,” he said, explaining that the agency’s responsibility extended beyond implementing its own programmes to establishing standards, partnerships and coordination mechanisms that would enable stakeholders to maximise their collective impact. The Director-General, however, cautioned that the number of recorded training achievements should not automatically be interpreted as the number of unique Nigerians who had attained a defined level of digital proficiency. He said the dashboard’s records must be complemented by credible assessments of the competencies acquired by participants, how they apply their skills and the benefits generated in their lives and communities. According to him, the agency intends to measure progress beyond training attendance by examining whether beneficiaries can communicate more effectively, protect themselves against online fraud, access information confidently and improve their businesses, jobs and livelihoods. The National Digital Literacy Framework, established in 2023, provides the foundation for the initiative, identifying six competence areas covering device and software operations, information and data literacy, communication and collaboration, digital content creation, digital safety and problem-solving. NITDA launched DL4ALL in 2024 to translate the framework into practical interventions across formal education, workforce development and the informal sector. Its collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps has also enabled Digital Literacy Champions to take training into markets and communities, with programme reporting recording more than 20,000 trainers and over 803,000 trainees through the informal-sector initiative. The National Digital Literacy Framework targets 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027 and 95 per cent by 2030, in line with the government’s broader ambition to build a $1 trillion economy by 2030. Earlier, various speakers took turns calling on state governments, technology companies, educational institutions, development partners and civil society organisations to register their interventions and submit credible data to the dashboard, stressing that achieving the national targets required collective responsibility. The ultimate objective was to ensure that digital literacy became an opportunity available to all Nigerians, enabling them to improve productivity, access economic opportunities and contribute to national development.
From electrifying rap battles and dance challenges to captivating live performances, Fearless Energy Drink, the official energy drink of Felabration 2026, brought its signature spirit of boldness and self-expression to the festival’s grand finale, celebrating the energy, creativity, and individuality that continue to shape Nigeria’s vibrant music culture.Held at the iconic New Afrika Shrine, the week-long celebration honoured the life, music and enduring legacy of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti under the theme “Who Are You?” For Fearless Energy Drink, a brand of Rite Foods Limited, the theme resonated deeply with its philosophy of “I CAN, I AM”—a call to embrace individuality, believe in…
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed the importance of strategic partnerships and stakeholder collaboration in advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, calling for renewed commitment to the implementation of its strategic roadmap and action plan. NITDADG,Kashifu Inuwa, who was represented by Dr Aristotle Onumo, Director, Special Duties Directorate made the statement during the SRAP 2.0 Stakeholders’ Engagement at Lagos Business School, Lagos State. Inuwa commended the leadership of Lagos Business School for sustaining the partnership with the agency, noting that collaboration and collective intelligence remained critical to achieving meaningful progress in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. He stressed that the impact of the agency’s initiatives could be deepened through stronger partnerships, adding that inclusive stakeholder participation was essential to delivering sustainable results in the country’s digital transformation efforts. According to him, the strategic roadmap and action plan were developed through extensive stakeholder consultations and collaborative engagements, rather than as an internal document produced without external input. Stakeholders, including members of Lagos Business School, actively participated in developing the document, making their continued involvement in reviewing its implementation necessary, he noted. The DG explained that the engagement provided an opportunity to assess progress, determine whether existing priorities remained relevant, identify areas requiring modification and establish whether the initiatives were delivering their intended impact. He emphasised that the review was also necessary to evaluate progress against commitments made to stakeholders and ensure that the agency’s programmes continued to respond to the evolving needs of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. The NITDA DG also acknowledged the contributions of colleagues at the agency, highlighting its gradual transition towards becoming an ecosystem platform for digital innovation. He observed that the agency’s approach was increasingly embracing co-creation and collaboration, moving beyond the traditional model of issuing regulations, directives and guidelines to working with stakeholders in developing and delivering digital solutions. According to him, this approach was essential to building an enabling environment where innovation could thrive and digital initiatives could achieve broader societal and economic impact. Inuwa further noted that the agency had spent the past three years advancing the transition and was approaching the final phase of the process. He urged stakeholders to renew their commitment and sustain the momentum required to achieve the desired outcomes. Reaffirming the agency’s vision, he said the goal remained to make Nigeria a digitally enabled nation, fostering inclusive economic development through technological innovation. He explained that the eight strategic pillars underpinning the roadmap remained central to achieving this vision and would continue to guide the agency’s priorities and interventions. The DG urged stakeholders to critically assess progress across these areas, particularly in digital skills development, regulatory effectiveness, digital infrastructure and services, entrepreneurship, innovation and the growth of Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. He also highlighted the importance of examining progress in implementing the Startup Act and assessing its contribution to strengthening the startup community and promoting innovation-driven enterprise development. On stakeholder engagement, he stressed the need to ensure that relevant players across the digital ecosystem were carried along, noting that effective collaboration remained essential to achieving the objectives of the national digital agenda. He expressed confidence that sustained partnerships, collective commitment and constructive contributions from stakeholders would help the agency address emerging challenges, strengthen implementation and advance Nigeria’s digital development goals. Inuwa concluded by urging stakeholders to embrace the partnership approach and work collectively towards building a digitally enabled Nigeria that could serve as a catalyst for digital transformation across Africa.
Group photograph of the participants and facilitators at the IPv6 Migration Training for management-level and technical personnel of MDAs. The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has urged executive-level officials of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to support Nigeria’s transition from Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) to Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), describing the shift as essential to expanding digital public services and strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure. At the opening of event, Inuwa said, that an IPv6 migration readiness workshop in Abuja, organised by the NITDA in collaboration with the Nigeria IPv6 Council…
The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE,in alignment with the presidential agenda of Reforming the Economy for Sustained Inclusive Growth, has called for a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s education system from an economy that places primary emphasis on academic certificates to one that prioritises practical capabilities, innovation, and the ability to translate knowledge into solutions that drive national development. The DG, who was represented by the agency’s Director of the Special Duties Department, Dr Aristotle Onumo, made this call while delivering the keynote address at the 3rd International Biennial Conference of the College of Physical Sciences (COLPHYS 2026) at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State. Speaking on the theme, “From Scientific Discovery to National Prosperity: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Convergent Innovation to Transform Nigeria,” he emphasised the need for universities to move beyond the traditional boundaries of academic disciplines and embrace collaborative research, emerging technologies, and practical problem-solving. Addressing the university community, researchers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and students, Inuwa noted that Nigeria’s development would depend not merely on the volume of research produced or the number of academic publications generated, but on the country’s ability to convert scientific knowledge into productive enterprises, innovative solutions, improved public services, and better livelihoods. “The future of our country will not be determined simply by how much research we produce. It will be determined by how effectively we convert research into productivity, innovation, enterprise and national prosperity,” he stated. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly enabling convergence across disciplines such as agriculture, healthcare, environmental science, mathematics, engineering, and data science, creating opportunities to address complex national challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration, he explained. According to him, AI should complement human expertise and strengthen scientific discovery rather than replace researchers or diminish the importance of human judgment. While stressing that the real value of technological advancement lies in its practical application to improve human lives, the DG said, “AI does not replace science. It amplifies science.” Using agriculture as an example, he illustrated how integrating agricultural science, satellite imagery, climate modelling, Internet of Things sensors, and AI could help farmers improve planting decisions, detect crop diseases, optimise irrigation, reduce input waste, and access better market information. He, however, cautioned that innovations must be designed around Nigeria’s realities, including local languages, affordability, limited connectivity, and the specific needs of the people expected to use them. He similarly highlighted opportunities for AI-enabled solutions in healthcare and climate resilience, including improved disease surveillance, clinical decision support, flood-risk prediction, and early-warning systems. He maintained that such technologies must be responsibly deployed, with appropriate safeguards for data privacy, accountability, fairness, and public trust. Inuwa reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s digital transformation ecosystem through digital literacy, talent development, digital infrastructure, innovation, and responsible technology adoption. He referenced the Agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF), the Digital Literacy for All initiative (DL4ALL), and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme as key efforts supporting the development of the skills and capabilities required for a technology-driven economy. He also highlighted the importance of expanding access to reliable connectivity and research infrastructure, noting that scientific institutions need suitable computing resources, quality datasets, secure cloud environments, and dependable electricity to compete effectively and develop locally relevant innovations. He called for stronger partnerships among government, academia, industry, investors, and entrepreneurs to create pathways through which promising research can be validated, commercialised, and deployed at scale. Turning specifically to higher education institutions, the NITDA DG urged universities to redefine how they measure academic and institutional success by placing greater emphasis on research impact, collaborative problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and the development of graduates capable of creating opportunities rather than merely seeking existing jobs. “The university of the future cannot remain merely a place where knowledge is transmitted, and certificates are awarded. It must become a place where problems are investigated, solutions are developed, enterprises are created, and society is transformed,” he said. He encouraged universities to strengthen technology transfer mechanisms, establish more effective research-industry partnerships, expand entrepreneurship education, and connect innovation hubs to real market and community needs. He further challenged researchers to consider how their discoveries could progress from academic publications to working prototypes, field-tested solutions, and sustainable products or services that address pressing national challenges. Speaking directly to students, Inuwa emphasised that academic qualifications remain important but must be complemented by relevant competencies, including digital and AI literacy, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, ethical judgment, and the capacity to solve practical problems. “Your certificate may open the door, but your capability will determine how far you go,” he remarked, urging students to use emerging technologies not merely to reproduce existing knowledge but to investigate difficult questions, discover new possibilities, and develop solutions to problems affecting their communities. As part of his challenge to FUNAAB and its partners, the DG proposed a practical 12month innovation agenda aimed at translating conference deliberations into measurable outcomes. He urged the College of Physical Sciences to identify a select number of highimpact national challenges within the first 90 days, establish collaborative research teams and begin developing prototypes within six months, test promising solutions with relevant communities and industry partners within nine months, and organise a research-to-impact showcase within 12 months. He stressed that the proposed agenda should be assessed through tangible outcomes, including validated prototypes, effective partnerships, commercialisation opportunities, and measurable benefits to society, rather than speeches and presentations alone. He also encouraged the conference organisers to build on the technical sessions and proposal-writing workshop to develop fundable, collaborative research projects. Inuwa expressed NITDA’s openness to exploring structured, mandate-aligned collaboration with academic and research institutions, particularly in areas that advance digital skills, responsible AI, indigenous innovation, and practical applications of emerging technologies. He maintained, however, that successful partnerships must begin with clearly defined problems and credible implementation plans. He challenged researchers, university leaders, and students to reflect on the problems their research would solve, the lives their innovations would improve, and the benefits Nigeria would derive from translating knowledge into action. “Let this conference be remembered not merely as another gathering of brilliant minds, but as a turning point where we resolved to convert the power of science into the prosperity of our nation,” he concluded. Earlier in his welcome address, the ViceChancellor of FUNAAB, Professor Olusola Babatunde, who was represented at the event by the Dean of the College of Environmental Resources Management (COLERM), Professor Olusegun Oguntoke, applauded NITDA for its remarkable contribution to the advancement of digital transformation in the country and appealed for the establishment of an Information Technology (IT) Hub at the university. He emphasised the importance of such a facility in strengthening the institution’s digital capacity, supporting research and innovation, and providing an enabling environment for students and researchers to develop practical technology-driven solutions.
L–R: Nollywood actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo; President/Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote; Nollywood actress, Joke Silva; and Group Vice President, Oil & Gas and Fertiliser, Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, during a visit by stakeholders in Nigeria’s creative industry to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals and Dangote Fertiliser complexes in Lekki, Lagos, on Monday, October 19, 2026. …Reveals $100bn Vision 2030 target may be revised upwards President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has challenged Nigerian entrepreneurs and creative industry practitioners to think beyond conventional limits, build globally competitive enterprises and create enduring legacies, declaring that…
As you mark your 70th birthday on October 21, I honour not only an accomplished public servant but also a very dear elder brother and partner whose life has been dedicated to serving our people. With the passage of time, I have come to deeply appreciate the bond between us, the many conversations we have shared, and the common commitment to Nigeria that continues to shape our service. Your path through the legislature, the Federal Executive Council, the governorship of Kano State, and national public life represents decades of experience, duty, and meaningful engagement with the Nigerian people. Turning seventy…
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) have formally announced a strategic public-private partnership aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital economy growth. Under this partnership, NACCIMA serves as an Official Private-Sector Investor Pipeline and Commercial Off-Taker Facilitator for NITDAbacked startups, technology ventures, and enterprise financing initiatives. The collaboration bridges the gap between government technology supply innovators, , and regulatory frameworks—and real sector demand across NACCIMA’s nationwide network of over 120 city, state, and bilateral chambers, as well as industrial conglomerates. Following the execution of the bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the alignment of the NITDA–NACCIMA Joint Technical Working Group (TWG), cochaired by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, Director, Special Duties Directorate, NITDA and Dr. Segun H. Olugbile the National Digital Economy Coordinator, NACCIMA both institutions are deploying three immediate priority initiatives: NACCIMA will lead private-sector mobilisation for DNICE 2026 scheduled to be held in Abuja from 10–12 November 2026. NACCIMA will curate B2B Deal Rooms, mobilize corporate investors and venture capital firms, participate in startup evaluation juries, and connect indigenous tech startups directly with corporate off-takers across manufacturing, agribusiness, logistics, and services. A national programme designed to equip 10,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with practical AI tools, digital skills, financial readiness structures, and market access pathways across all 36 states and the FCT. A joint compliance effort through the launch of a digital trust mark platform designed to onboard verified businesses, ensuring adherence to data protection standards (NDPA 2023), cybersecurity readiness, and digital trust across regional trade corridors such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). “Combining government policy leadership with the active commercial demand of the organised private sector creates an unprecedented growth engine for Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. Through NACCIMA, we are ensuring that indigenous startups and tech innovators do not just build solutions, but gain direct access to corporate buyers, domestic capital, and sustainable commercial contracts.”— Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General/CEO, NITDA “This strategic alliance positions Nigerian commerce and industry at the forefront of technology adoption. NACCIMA is committed to serving as the primary off-taker and investor pipeline for NITDA-supported startups. By connecting traditional industries—agriculture, manufacturing, trade, and mining—with innovative digital solutions and 3MTT technical talent, we are driving enterprise productivity and building a resilient, future-ready economy.” — Engr. (Dr.) Jani Ibrahim, mni, FNSE, FAEng., OON, National President, NACCIMA To drive daily operational execution, a Joint Technical Working Group comprising senior leads from both NITDA and NACCIMA has been deployed. The team is currently finalizing the enterprise pipeline, deal-room structures, and launch modalities ahead of the formal unveiling at DNICE 2026 in Abuja. Enterprises, corporate investors, tech vendors, and startups seeking to participate in the B2B deal rooms or the 10,000 AI Enterprise Accelerator can access registration updates through the official NACCIMA Digital Economy Desk and NITDA portals. About NITDA: The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is the public clearinghouse for IT research, development, standardization, coordination, and regulation in Nigeria, mandated to drive digital transformation and position Nigeria as Africa’s premier digital hub. About NACCIMA: The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) is the umbrella organization for the Organised Private Sector in Nigeria, representing city, state, and bilateral chambers, business associations, and corporate enterprises across the nation. Media Contacts: NITDA Communications:Email: info@nitda.gov.ng | Website: www.nitda.gov.ng NACCIMA Digital Economy Desk:Email: info@naccima.com | Website: www.naccima.com Signed: Mrs Hadiza Umar fnipr Director, Corporate Communications, NITDA Dr. Segun H. Olugbile, NACCIMA Digital Economy Coordinator and Chairman Digital Economy Trade Group.