The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has partnered with Lancaster University in the United Kingdom to promote research and drive digital innovation in Nigeria. The partnership aims to support Nigeria’s digital transformation and empower young people through innovation and technology.
NITDA announced the partnership on Tuesday when a team from Lancaster University, led by Professor Kirk Semple, Director of International Research, visited NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja.
At the heart of this partnership is a new programme called the Research and Innovation Partnership for Entrepreneurship (RIPE). This initiative will help turn academic research into practical solutions that boost entrepreneurship and support Nigeria’s economy.
NITDA highlights the need for better research investment
NITDA Director-General Malam Kashifu Inuwa said Africa’s digital growth has been slow because of poor investment in research and development (R&D). He pointed out that Nigerian farmers, for example, still lack access to digital tools and data that could increase their productivity and reduce waste.
Inuwa explained that R&D is key not only for solving sector problems but also for helping the government make smarter policies. He said strong research will speed up Nigeria’s digital transformation and improve many parts of the economy.
Inuwa also shared NITDA’s plan to support innovation in new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), drones, blockchain, robotics, and 3D printing. He said these tools can help solve problems in agriculture, health, education, and other areas.
“Our goal is to build a strong tech and research community,” Inuwa said. “We want universities, government, private businesses, and investors to work together to create useful solutions.”
The NITDA boss also urged Nigerian universities to update their courses so students can learn the digital skills needed in today’s job market. He said young Nigerians must learn how to solve real-world problems using technology and innovation.
This partnership between NITDA and Lancaster University marks an important step in building a knowledge-based economy and preparing the next generation of innovators in Nigeria.
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