Abuja: The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced its dedication to reinforcing the partnership between Nigeria and the United States, focusing on data privacy, Artificial Intelligence (AI), capacity building, and cybersecurity. Malam Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of NITDA, highlighted this commitment during the Nigeria Data Privacy Capacity Building Workshop, organized by the U.S. Department of State in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the workshop was a collaborative effort involving the Nigerian Mission and key stakeholders in the digital ecosystem. Inuwa emphasized that this partnership is part of a deliberate strategy by both nations to tackle emerging digital challenges and seize opportunities. In April 2024, the two countries, through the U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission, agreed to collaborate in critical areas such as data privacy, AI, cybersecurity, and digital development.
Inuwa pointed out that the same year saw the successful co-hosting of an AI Conference by the Nigerian Government and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria. He stated that the focus on data privacy, AI, cybersecurity, and policy is centered on building trust in the digital ecosystem. Trust is seen as essential for digital transformation, as its absence hinders innovation and raises costs, while its presence accelerates progress and lowers growth barriers.
The Director-General stressed the importance of intentional efforts to protect data privacy, enhance security frameworks, and responsibly deploy AI to build a thriving digital economy. He underscored that AI’s reliance on data necessitates privacy, which can only be assured through robust security measures, hence the need for collective action on these issues.
Inuwa described the workshop as a starting point for broader engagements and deeper collaboration in other strategic areas, especially in the global digital economy. He mentioned that following the U.S. Mission’s participation in the National Cybersecurity conference in 2026, there are plans to elevate the conference to an international cybersecurity platform this year.
He reassured partners and stakeholders of NITDA’s commitment to establishing the right policies and environments conducive to innovation. Inuwa highlighted Nigeria and Africa as the next frontier of the digital economy, driven by a young, digital-native population and a growing market. He noted the country’s local talent capable of creating homegrown solutions for national and regional issues.
Inuwa affirmed their commitment to cooperating with international partners to enhance local capacity and promote digital self-determination. He stated that digital technology is crucial for future economic growth and development, and no nation can afford to lag behind. The ongoing AI revolution’s opportunities can only be harnessed by safeguarding privacy, establishing sound policies, and laying a strong digital foundation for rapid technological advancement.