In a continued effort to drive digital innovation and economic development, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Microsoft have reaffirmed their strategic partnership. The renewed collaboration aims to bolster Nigeria’s digital transformation goals and build a robust digital economy in alignment with the federal government’s vision.
Microsoft and NITDA Strengthen Ties for National Development
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, recently hosted Jeff Bullwinkel, Microsoft’s Vice President and Deputy General Counsel for Corporate, External & Legal Affairs (EMEA), at NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja. The high-level meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the areas of digital skills development, infrastructure modernization, and public-private innovation.
Driving President Tinubu’s Digital Economy Vision
During the strategic engagement, Kashifu Inuwa reiterated that technology is central to all eight priority areas identified by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He emphasized that partnerships with global technology leaders like Microsoft are crucial for
- Accelerating digital inclusion
- Expanding access to innovation and skills
- Boosting national economic competitiveness
“Technology is the backbone of economic growth, and our partnership with Microsoft is vital to realizing Nigeria’s digital potential,” said Inuwa.
Microsoft Reinforces Long-Term Commitment to Nigeria
Jeff Bullwinkel reaffirmed Microsoft’s commitment to long-term investments in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. He was accompanied by
- Ola Williams, Microsoft’s General Manager for Nigeria and Ghana
- Nonye Ujam, Director of Government Affairs
Their participation reflects Microsoft’s goal to co-create solutions with government stakeholders, upskill the workforce, and strengthen digital public infrastructure in Nigeria.
Key Areas of the NITDA–Microsoft Collaboration:
- Digital literacy and skills training programs for youth and civil servants
- Cloud and cybersecurity solutions to modernize government operations
- Support for startups and entrepreneurs through innovation hubs
- Policy dialogue and regulatory guidance for emerging technologies
This partnership is aligned with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) and supports key pillars such as digital literacy, service infrastructure, innovation-driven enterprise, and digital society.
Looking Ahead: A Digitally Inclusive Nigeria
The renewed collaboration between NITDA and Microsoft comes at a pivotal time as Nigeria seeks to position itself as Africa’s digital powerhouse. With Microsoft’s global expertise and NITDA’s strategic direction, the partnership is poised to unlock new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth.
