By Muhammd Jalal
Aligning with the current administration’s focus on diversifying the economy through industrialisation, digitization, creative arts, and manufacturing, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s creative and arts industry through targeted digital initiatives, enabling regulations, and strategic infrastructure development aimed at unlocking the sector’s full economic potential.
Speaking at Moment 2026, Africa’s Largest Convergence of Creators, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, emphasised that the Agency is focused on building a technology-driven ecosystem where creators can thrive, innovate, and compete globally.
Highlighting the growing importance of the sector, the DG, who was represented by the Director of the DG’s Office, Dr Ayodeji Eniola, noted that Nigeria’s creative industry, currently valued at over $9 billion, could exceed $13 billion in the coming years with the right support systems in place.
“Nigeria has always been a nation of storytellers, musicians, filmmakers, designers, and innovators. What is remarkable today is that this creativity has evolved beyond cultural expression to become a powerful economic force.”
He said that at the heart of NITDA’s interventions is digital talent development and mentioned that through flagship programmes such as the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, the Agency is equipping young Nigerians with critical skills in animation, visual effects, game development, and digital media, ensuring they are prepared for emerging opportunities in the global creator economy.
The DG stressed that the intersection of creativity and technology is central to the future of the industry.
“Today, creativity is powered by connectivity, computing power, digital platforms, and data. A smartphone, a laptop, and access to the internet can enable a young Nigerian to reach millions of people around the world.”
To support this transformation, Inuwa stated that NITDA is driving the development of key digital infrastructure, including the National Sovereign Cloud Initiative, which provides secure, scalable local computing resources for creators and digital entrepreneurs.
He also noted the Agency is supporting national broadband expansion efforts, such as Project BRIDGE, to improve connectivity and expand participation in the digital economy.
In addition to infrastructure, Inuwa disclosed that NITDA continues to strengthen regulatory frameworks that promote cybersecurity, data protection, and digital trust, critical elements for safeguarding creators’ intellectual property and ensuring safe participation in online ecosystems.
He announced that the Agency is also leveraging emerging technologies to position Nigeria at the forefront of innovation in the creative space.
Through the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), he added that NITDA is advancing research and capacity building in artificial intelligence, enabling creators to integrate cutting-edge tools into content production and digital storytelling.
Reinforcing the broader national vision and calling on young creators to recognise the economic and global significance of their work, the DG said, “Your creativity is not just entertainment. It is innovation, intellectual property, economic opportunity, and national influence.”
He reiterated that the Agency will continue to implement policies, develop infrastructure, and foster innovation ecosystems that empower Nigeria’s creative sector to grow sustainably, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic diversification agenda.
