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Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa: Championing Nigeria’s IT Revolution as DG of NITDA

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Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa: Championing Nigeria’s IT Revolution as DG of NITDA

By: Abdulkadir Ibrahim

Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s technological advancement. Appointed in August 2019, Inuwa’s tenure has been marked by transformative initiatives that are reshaping Nigeria’s digital landscape. Under his leadership, NITDA, a federal government agency responsible for fostering and regulating the country’s information technology sector, has made significant strides in driving innovation, digital inclusion, and economic growth.

Advancing Nigeria’s Digital Economy

One of Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa’s most notable achievements is his contribution to the implementation of Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020–2030. This strategic framework, launched by former President Muhammadu Buhari, aims to diversify the Nigerian economy through the adoption of digital technologies. Inuwa has ensured NITDA aligns its programs and activities with the policy’s goals, focusing on digital skills development, job creation, and the growth of a knowledge-driven economy.

Promoting Digital Skills and Literacy,

Recognizing that human capital is the backbone of a thriving digital economy, Inuwa has championed initiatives to equip Nigerians with essential digital skills. Through NITDA’s Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Program, thousands of Nigerians have been trained in areas such as software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity. These programs are particularly targeted at youths, women, and other marginalized groups, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital transformation journey.

Empowering Startups and Entrepreneurs

Under Inuwa’s leadership, NITDA has become a critical supporter of Nigeria’s burgeoning tech startup ecosystem. The agency has launched programs like the National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) to foster innovation in emerging technologies. Additionally, initiatives such as the Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Support Scheme have provided funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to startups, enabling them to scale and compete globally.

Strengthening IT Governance and Cybersecurity

As the digital economy grows, so do concerns about data protection and cybersecurity. Inuwa has been instrumental in implementing the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), which establishes guidelines for the secure and responsible handling of personal data. The NDPR has positioned Nigeria as a leader in data protection in Africa, with over 2,600 Data Protection Compliance Organizations (DPCOs) accredited under Inuwa’s watch.

Moreover, NITDA has increased efforts to enhance cybersecurity awareness and resilience, collaborating with stakeholders to safeguard Nigeria’s cyberspace against threats.

Bridging the Digital Divide

Inuwa has also prioritized digital inclusion, ensuring that rural and underserved communities benefit from information technology. Through programs like the Digital Economy Centers and the provision of ICT tools to schools, the agency is working to close the digital divide and bring more Nigerians online.

Leveraging Emerging Technologies

Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa has shown foresight in promoting the adoption of emerging technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). By organizing capacity-building workshops and supporting research in these areas, NITDA is positioning Nigeria to harness the transformative potential of these technologies for socio-economic development.

Recognitions and Global Engagement

Inuwa’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has represented Nigeria at international forums, advocating for policies that support the growth of IT in developing countries. His leadership has earned NITDA accolades and strengthened Nigeria’s reputation as a hub for innovation and technology in Africa.

Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa’s tenure as DG of NITDA has been a period of remarkable growth and innovation in Nigeria’s IT sector. By driving initiatives that promote digital literacy, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, he has laid a solid foundation for a sustainable digital economy. His commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusivity ensures that the benefits of technology reach all Nigerians, paving the way for a brighter, tech-driven future for the nation.

As Nigeria continues its journey towards digital transformation, Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa remains a visionary leader and a catalyst for progress in the country’s information technology landscape.

Abdulkadir Ibrahim is a writer from Abuja

Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa: Championing Nigeria’s IT Revolution as DG of NITDA

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Zulum hits the ground running on Insecurity, vows to complete Ongoing Projects before leaving office

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Zulum hits the ground running on Insecurity, vows to complete Ongoing Projects before leaving office

By: Bodunrin Kayode

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling the remaining security challenges in the state.

The Governor made this pledge yesterday during the first regular State Executive Council meeting of the year, 2026, held at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Maiduguri.

Addressing members of the cabinet and top government officials before the start of the meeting, Governor Zulum emphasised that 2026 would be a year of consolidation.

He noted that while relative peace has been restored in many parts of the state, the government will not relent in providing the needed security in all parts of Borno.

Beyond the security interventions, Zulum also explained that Government will focus on the resettlement of internally displaced persons by investing in medium- and long-term durable solutions to challenges on the ground.

He noted that his government will also ensure the timely completion of all ongoing developmental projects across the three senatorial zones of the state to cushion the dividends of democracy desirable for the people.

He added that his administration will strengthen the social protection net of residents stating that “social protection remains central to our agenda as we rebuild Borno for a better future.

” While we shall not relent in providing social amenities to the great people of the state, the need to provide social protection to our people cannot be overemphasised.” said Zulum.

The meeting was attended by Commissioners, the Secretary to Borno State Government, Bukar Tijani, Acting Chief of State, Dr Babagana Mallumbe, and other members of the executive council.

Borno state governments have spent over 16 years of their developmental years battling insurgency which has tremendously slowed down the entire machinery of social engineering which should have taken the state to a very high level of stability if there was no security Challenges on ground.

Zulum hits the ground running on Insecurity, vows to complete Ongoing Projects before leaving office

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Rev. Dachomo accuses of Trump bias, vows to go to War

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Rev. Dachomo accuses of Trump bias, vows to go to War

By: Zagazola Makama

The outspoken Christian cleric in Plateau State, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo has called for ‘WAR’ in the state and also blamed President Donald Trump for bias in deploying United States security asserts in the campaign against the genocide of Christians in Nigeria.

In a footage circulating on social media, the cleric who is the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, made the call while addressing mourners at the burial of seven persons killed in a reprisal attack at Dorowa Babuje village in the local government.

“Rev. Dachoma was also heard declaring that residents would no longer “run away,” adding that if there was to be a “full-blown war,” they were prepared to defend themselves.

“We are not going to run away, if there will be full blown WAR it will start from today to the day that the God has placed for us. Let them continue to gather, we have chosen to die than to remain burying our brothers.

“My fellow brothers and sisters i am rounding this message so that we can go back and stay and go for war, since the Fulani said we will not rest in plateau, they are not afraid of the security from today we will not be afraid of the security.

The cleric further blamed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Sultan of Sokoto of alleged bias in security arrangements affecting Plateau State and other Christian-dominated communities in Nigeria, saying, “

In a video circulating online, the cleric questioned the deployment of U.S military in muslims dominated northern regions and alleged neglect of Christian communities.

“We have chosen to die rather than continue burying our brothers,” he said, while calling on community members to remain resolute.

“When I invited Trump to Nigeria to come and help us, when Trump responded, their blueprint was that none of the soldiers of the United States should come to Plateau State,” he said.
“They directed their attention to Sokoto, where the Muslim-dominant area the Muslims are enjoying the coming of Trump.”

He continued: “If I were allowed to say Trump is in Nigeria to protect the Muslims… another batch is in Maiduguri, another batch were deployed in Kaduna and Bauchi. In Kwara, no batch is there. Rev. Dachomo further alleged that Christian communities were being neglected, stating: “The Yorubas were allowed to be killed like chicken. Benue, no army is there.”

He also made allegations against the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, accusing him sabotaging deployment of US forces.

“Why is it that he did not allow the American soldiers to come to Plateau State? They cornered them to please his people.”

The cleric alleged that insurgents who fled military operations elsewhere had relocated to Plateau communities. The insurgents that escaped from Sambisa and from Sokoto are right here in Manda, in Fars, in Okolindiri, Lingerie,” he claimed.

“It is from Lingerie that they came and killed those people, because the real training ground of terrorists is Lingerie.”

Rev. Dachomo also referenced the Sultan in his remarks, alleging what he described as a broader agenda against Christians. “That is Sultan road map to wipe out Plateau Christians and other Christians in Nigeria,” he said.

Despite his strong accusations, the cleric acknowledged the efforts of local security operatives in preventing greater casualties during the recent attack.

“This could have been more than 100 corpses, but God used the security to give us enough protection when they saw the security move quickly,” he said.

Also, Barrister Solomon, President of the Berom Youths, was also heard in a related video expressing the same threat against the existence of Fulani in plateau state. “We can no longer guarantee peace and security on the Plateau if Fulani continue grazing on our land.”he said.

Solomon declared that the Fulani should awaits their response. “Fulani you have taken credit, Fulani You have taken credits,”he said.

Meanwhile, in a subsequent clip, however, he appeared to temper his earlier tone, saying: “Even some security have tagged me for the comments we made yesterday. My life is not more precious than this city. “I will not incite any violence in Plateau, but we deserve to be protected. We deserve it.”he said.

“I’m using this opportunity to call on our people let’s remain calm. Let’s continue as law-abiding citizens. We are not praying for similar things to happen. We are not at war with anybody.”

“The hausa of the Yoruba, the Igbos, and any other person that comes to Plateau should have it at the back of his mind that he will settle peacefully.”

“A Plateau man has never been known for any act of terrorism. But the Fulani have declared war on us, and it is so unfortunate that some people are falling victims of circumstance.”

He also appealed to federal authorities, stating:
“We are calling on Mr. President and the security governor. Please sir, since having security in our domain cannot guarantee our safety, why will it not be relocated to where the bandits are settled? So we will then know when they will come to attack us.”

Zagazola Makama report that Plateau State has witnessed recurring communal and banditry-related violence over the years, with security agencies continuing operations to curb attacks in vulnerable communities.

Rev. Dachomo accuses of Trump bias, vows to go to War

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Forensic Team Exhumes 105 Bodies in Probe of 2025 Yelwata Killings

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Forensic Team Exhumes 105 Bodies in Probe of 2025 Yelwata Killings

By: Zagazola Makama

A team of federal medical pathologists has exhumed 105 bodies from mass graves in Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue, as part of ongoing investigations into the June 13, 2025 attack on the area.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the team, led by Prof. Saad Ahmed from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abuja, arrived in Yelwata on Feb. 23, 2026, alongside operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Abuja.

The sources said the delegation included members of the Presidential Medical Delegation and worked in collaboration with officials of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

According to the sources, locations of the graves were identified on the same day under adequate security provided by the Benue State Police Command.

The exhumation exercise commenced on Feb. 24, during which seven bodies were recovered.

The team continued the exercise on Feb. 25 and Feb. 26, exhuming additional remains, bringing the total number of corpses recovered to 105 from 13 mass graves located in and around Yelwata community.

The exercise was concluded on Feb. 26.

Police sources said the exhumation was conducted to facilitate forensic inquests and strengthen evidence in the ongoing prosecution of suspects linked to the killings.

“Seven corpses were initially exhumed by the IRT-led federal investigators for inquest. The exercise continued and further development will be communicated,” a security source said.

The deployment of forensic experts followed proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where nine suspects were arraigned on Feb. 2, 2026, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik in connection with the Yelwata attack.

The court had emphasised the importance of forensic evidence to ensure a fair trial and proper determination of culpability.

Security officials said adequate measures were put in place to ensure the exercise was conducted peacefully and without disruption.

The June 13, 2025 attack on Yelwata community reportedly resulted in the deaths of several residents and displaced many others, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for justice.

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation had earlier commenced prosecution of suspects arrested in connection with the incident.

Authorities said further updates would be communicated as investigations progress.

Forensic Team Exhumes 105 Bodies in Probe of 2025 Yelwata Killings

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