BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has formed a strategic partnership with the United States Chamber of Commerce to advance Nigeria's digital economy.
This formed the crux of discussions when the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa received a delegation from Microsoft, Citi Bank, Cavista Holdings, Flutterwave, Tolaram Group, the American Business Council and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, led by the President of the U.S.-Africa Business Centre, Kendra Gaither in Abuja.
Inuwa reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive and competitive digital economy through strategic partnerships with international technology companies, emphasising that the country’s digital policies are designed to attract investment, strengthen local capacity and secure its digital future.
The essence of the visit was to explore opportunities for deeper collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in digital transformation, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data governance and technology investment.
Inuwa informed that Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda is anchored on two fundamental objectives: ensuring citizens have reliable access to essential digital services and positioning them to participate meaningfully in value creation within the digital economy.
The DG said that NITDA's sovereign cloud initiative is intended to strengthen national control over critical digital infrastructure, enhance resilience against disruptions, mitigate risks and provide flexibility in the adoption of technology solutions.
He noted that digital sovereignty should not be interpreted as an attempt to exclude international technology companies, but rather as an opportunity to encourage them to invest in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and collaborate with local businesses to deliver sustainable solutions.
Inuwa highlighted the importance of developing local infrastructure and capacity to ensure that Nigeria derives greater economic value from its growing digital market.
He was optimistic that investments in domestic data centres and cloud infrastructure would create opportunities for local businesses, support innovation and strengthen the country’s position as a technology hub for West and Central Africa.
The DG disclosed that the Federal Government had invested more than ₦4.5 trillion in information technology between June 2023 and June 2026, adding that appropriate infrastructure and policy frameworks could help channel the relevant technology services towards locally hosted sovereign cloud solutions.
He raised concerns surrounding data localisation and regulatory compliance, particularly in the financial technology ecosystem.
Inuwa informed that the agency is working with relevant regulators, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), to develop an assurance framework that provides clarity on technical requirements, support compliance and encourage investment in local infrastructure.
He stated that policies must create an environment where technology providers can compete fairly while the government and businesses retain the flexibility to adopt solutions that best meet their needs.
Inuwa underscored the importance of collaboration in developing effective digital policies, saying that NITDA had previously worked with major technology companies, local providers and other stakeholders in shaping Nigeria’s cloud-first policy.
He encouraged members of the delegation to sustain engagement with the agency and explore practical ways of aligning their investments and solutions with the country’s digital priorities.
Responding to a proposal by Kavista Holdings for collaboration in digital transformation, workforce development and employment-oriented skills programmes, the DG invited the company to formally submit its proposal for assessment by the relevant NITDA team.
Kendra Gaither reaffirmed the American business community’s interest in deepening commercial engagement with Nigeria, identifying digital transformation, regulatory clarity and investment predictability as critical to expanding bilateral economic cooperation.
She described Nigeria as an important player in Africa’s information technology and digital economy landscape, saying that the country’s policy direction has significant implications for businesses operating across West Africa and the wider continent.
Gaither noted that the delegation is seeking constructive dialogue with NITDA to better understand Nigeria’s evolving digital regulatory environment and identify practical ways to support shared economic and innovation objectives.
She hinted that a secure, competitive and predictable regulatory environment would benefit Nigerian businesses, US companies and other international investors by providing clearer expectations for compliance and long-term investment decisions.
Gaither lamented that overlapping regulatory responsibilities, particularly in cloud computing, data governance and financial services requires greater clarity, emphasising that companies are eager to comply with Nigeria’s requirements and continue expanding their operations.
She acknowledged Nigeria’s growing leadership in digital policy and trade discussions across the continent, seeking the Chamber’s readiness to draw on international experience and facilitate further engagement between NITDA and its member companies.
Gaither maintained that sustained dialogue would help address uncertainties, strengthen confidence and create opportunities for partnerships that advance Nigeria’s digital transformation while supporting the commercial interests of U.S. businesses.
The Chamber of Commerce delegation included representatives of technology, financial services and investment organisations, including Microsoft and Citi, alongside members of the American Business Council and the US Embassy.
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