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Alhaji Kashifu Inuwa: Championing Nigeria’s IT Revolution as DG of NITDA
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
News
Three Key bandits Leaders, several leaders killed in a deadly rival clash in Kastina
Three Key bandits Leaders, several leaders killed in a deadly rival clash in Kastina
By: Zagazola Makama
A deadly violent clash between rival bandit factions erupted on Tuesday in the Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State, resulting in the death of key leaders and heightened security concerns in the region.
The confrontation, involving the Yan Kambari group and followers of the late notorious bandit leader, Usman Modi Modi, led to heavy casualties and the seizure of livestock belonging to Harisu, a known associate of one of the factions.
The Yan Kambari group reportedly launched the attack on Harisu’s residence, sparking a deadly confrontation that claimed the lives of several bandit leaders, including: Nasiru Bosho, Bala Yatsa and Audu Mankare, who succumbed to gunshot injuries sustained during the clash.
Nasiru Bosho is a notorious leader of bandit operations in Safana LGA and heading the Dogon Marke Camp, who was overseeing weapons previously held by Usman Modi Modi, Bala Yatsa was known for his role in the killing of Usman Modi Modi while Audu Mankare who sustained a gunshot wound in the chest during the engagement, is believed to have succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident.
More infighting is expected to unfold as both groups are warming up to carry out reprisal.
Three Key bandits Leaders, several leaders killed in a deadly rival clash in Kastina
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KACRAN National President commends Potikum LG Chairman
KACRAN National President commends Potikum LG Chairman
By: Yahaya Wakili
The National President of the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN), Hon. Khalil Mohammed Bello, has commended the executive chairman of the Potiskum local government area, Yobe State, Hon. Salisu Muktari, for providing herders of Potiskum local government with water points.
Hon. Khalil Bello made the commendation when he and his entourage visited the chairman in the council chamber in continuation of the association community-to-community peace sensitization campaign in the state.
“In addition to his previous excellent performances with regards to providing his pastoralists with water points, the executive chairman promised to provide more water points for Potiskum local government herders in the 2025 fiscal year,” Bello said.
The national president called on pastoralists in the Potiskum local government area and its environs to continue to live in peace with one another by avoiding the destruction of anybody’s farmlands.
According to him, the sensitization is part of the proactive measures taken by the association to prevent herder and farmer conflicts in the state and the nation in general.
He reinstated the need for harders not to destroy farmlands during the ongoing harvesting period, adding that pastoralists and farmers are partners in progress.
Hon. Khalil Mohammed Bello acknowledges the government’s commitment under the able leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni CON towards ending the premium crises between farmers and cattle rearers in the state.
He also appreciates the warm reception and the hospitality accorded him and members of his entourage by the executive chairman of the council, Hon. Salisu Muktari, and the people of Potiskum town and its surroundings.
The National President urged the other local government executives chairmen to emulate the executive chairman of Potiskum local government, Hon. Salisu Muktari, to provide water points to herders in their respective local government areas.
Speaking earlier, the executive chairman of the Potiskum local government area, Hon. Salisu Muktari, assured the readiness of the local government council towards supporting the association to achieve its desired objectives.
The chairman pledged to construct more water points for pastoralists in the area and called on the KACRAN leadership to identify the point where the water facilities will be constructed.
KACRAN National President commends Potikum LG Chairman
News
Anti-Corruption: International IDEA, Stakeholders Advocate for Domestication of Fiscal Responsibility Act in North Central States
Anti-Corruption: International IDEA, Stakeholders Advocate for Domestication of Fiscal Responsibility Act in North Central States
By: Michael Mike
Stakeholders in Anti-Corruption and Accountability in public funds have called for the domestication of Nigeria’s Fiscal Responsibility Commission Act in the North Central States of Nigeria to promote transparency and accountability.
The call came during the North Central Zonal Summit of Fiscal Responsibility Institutions funded by the European Union and being implemented by the Rule of Law and Anti-corruption (RoLAC) and International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) held in Jos the Plateau State Capital.
The two-day engagement with the theme: ‘Integrating the Citizens into Fiscal Decision-Making in States and Local Governments: Insight from Fiscal Responsibility Act’ is aimed at ensuring the dividends of democracy reach the people as expected with prudence in financial management.
Addressing participants at the summit, Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako, harped on the need for citizens’ participation in fiscal decision-making, stressing that such will promote transparency and accountability, which are essential components of good governance.
Represented by his Special Adviser, Chris Uwadoka, the FRC chairman said that the essence of the summit was to facilitate the domestication of the Act by sub-nationals.
He maintained that the theme of the summit underscores the importance of strengthening fiscal responsibility and promoting citizen participation in public finance management at the sub-national level.
He said, “Transparency and accountability are essential components of good governance. The public has the right to know how public funds are being allocated, spent, and managed. This includes information about budget proposals, expenditure reports, and audit findings.
“By promoting transparency, we can empower citizens to hold public officials accountable and ensure that public resources are used efficiently and effectively.
“Recent initiatives such as the Open Government Partnership, the Freedom of Information Act, and the Sustainable Fiscal Frameworks (SFF) have made significant strides in promoting citizen participation and accountability in public finance management. These reforms aim to strengthen transparency, enhance public oversight, and improve service delivery.”
The Plateau State Coordinator of RoLAC Programme of International IDEA, Mr Pwanakim Mantin Dala, said citizens’ participation in the management of resources is key for any government operations across various levels, especially at the grassroots level.
“The Fiscal Responsibility Act looks beyond releasing budgetary information to the public; it looks at how the fund is being applied. It also looks at what the funds were allocated for and whether the funds were properly utilized for the purposes. So that you’re not spending so much for so little and that’s what this engagement is all about.”
On his part, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr Caleb Mutfwang, represented by the Commissioner of Finance, Mrs Grace Dongkum, assured that the state was already in the process of domesticating the Fiscal Responsibility Act to further strengthen government operations.
He said, “Fiscal Responsibility is an integral part of government, especially financial management, because it is about transparency.
“One thing about transparency is that you manage the resources in such a way that it meets the critical needs of sectors and still have resources for future use. Fiscal Responsibility and Act wants to ensure that we don’t finish everything we have right now; we think of the future.
“So, in decisions that we will make, we are being transparent, and we situate projects or services in such a way that they will have long-lasting effects and also ensure that the future benefits from the decisions that are taken now.”
Anti-Corruption: International IDEA, Stakeholders Advocate for Domestication of Fiscal Responsibility Act in North Central States
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