NITDA Reaffirms Support For Creative Economy With Digital Initiatives, Policy Frameworks
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) aligning with the current administration’s focus on diversifying the economy through industrialisation, digitisation, creative arts, and manufacturing 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.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, speaking at Moment 2026, Africa’s Largest Convergence of Creators, emphasised that the Agency is focused on building a technology-driven ecosystem where creators can thrive, innovate, and compete globally.
The DG NITDA who was represented by the Director of the DG’s Office, Dr Ayodeji Eniola, while highlighting the growing importance of the sector, 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.
According to him, “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 mentioned that at the heart of NITDA’s interventions is digital talent development and 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 explained that the intersection of creativity and technology is central to the future of the industry, adding that “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.”
Inuwa stated that to support this transformation, 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 hinted that the Agency is supporting national broadband expansion efforts, such as Project BRIDGE, to improve connectivity and expand participation in the digital economy.
Inuwa disclosed that in addition to infrastructure, that the Agency 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.
He added that through the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), NITDA is advancing research and capacity building in artificial intelligence, enabling creators to integrate cutting-edge tools into content production and digital storytelling.
The DG emphasized on broader national vision with a call on young creators to recognise the economic and global significance of their work.
“Your creativity is not just entertainment. It is innovation, intellectual property, economic opportunity, and national influence,” Inuwa added.
He reaffirmed 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.