The Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has called on States’ policymakers to identify and harness their technology resources, effectively.
The NITDA Boss spoke at a capacity building Workshop held at FutureMap Academy, in Hadejia, Jigawa State focusing on the theme, “AI for Office Productivity, Design Thinking, Agriculture, Health, Education, Energy, and Climate Change.”
Addressing participants, which included academics, professionals, startup founders, students, government officials, and representatives from non-governmental organizations, Kashifu emphasised the need for State policymakers to leverage the unique strengths of their states to drive economic prosperity.
Citing Jigawa’s large pool of computer science graduates as a significant asset, he pointed out that they could be empowered to contribute to the state’s development if equipped with the right skills and opportunities.
He shared personal anecdotes about his journey into computer science and digital transformation, emphasizing how local mentors can inspire the next generation to explore careers in technology.
Inuwa stressed the need for policies that build remote work competencies among young people.
He shared the success stories of young Nigerians who transitioned from being workers in organisations to a high-paying remote role with foreign companies.
The DG advocated for integrating technology into various sectors, including agriculture, to create diverse employment opportunities.
Encouraging participants to rethink service delivery, Inuwa stressed the need for technology-driven solutions to improve citizens’ lives by utilizing resources efficiently to improve productivity and enable remote work opportunities for citizens.
He highlighted digital transformation’s impact on productivity, integrating people, processes, and technology. He cited Uber and Airbnb as examples of disruption through innovation.
He also showcased AI’s practical applications and suggested government services, such as land and birth certificate registration, could benefit from digital transformation, reducing bureaucratic stress for citizens.
Highlighting the transformative role o technology and self-learning in boosting productivity, he disclosed how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used at NITDA to enhance operational efficiency by streamlining processes and managing complex tasks.
While emphasizing the importance of adopting a strategic mindset and integrating technology into everyday workflows, he urged participants to start with small changes in their own offices and inspire others to adopt strategic approaches to problem-solving.
He noted that effective service delivery starts with individual commitment and grows into collective action.
In a goodwill message at the event, Huawei reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
Award-winning PR industry expert and Deputy Director, Huawei Nigeria, Dr. Nihinlola Mary Fafore, in her submission, emphasised the company’s vision to empower individuals and communities with digital skills.
According to her, in partnership with stakeholders, Huawei aims to bridge the digital divide, foster innovation and entrepreneurship, and enhance employability among young Nigerians.
She said the initiative is part of Huawei’s efforts to develop a robust tech ecosystem in Nigeria, ensuring that no region is left behind in the journey towards technological advancement.
In his remarks, the technical adviser to the Governor of Jigawa State on ICT and Digital Economy, Dr. Rislan Abdulazeez Kanya, highlighted the untapped potential of local human capital and the importance of strategic policies in fostering growth and innovation.
Kanya underscored the commitment of the State government, NITDA and other stakeholders in fostering innovation and empowering local communities through technology, positioning Jigawa as a potential hub for tech-driven development.
The workshop was organised by Future Map Foundation in collaborating with NITDA, Jigawa State, Huawei, Cosmopolitan University, and Open School Initiative.
FutureMap Foundation was established to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, productive employment, and decent work for all and to strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development through Digital Job Creation, Skills Acquisition and Creative Technology Programme.
