Nigeria will establish research centers focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and Blockchain across the country’s six geopolitical zones. The announcement was made by the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, during the IoT West Africa Conference held in Lagos. Represented by NITDA’s Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, Aristotle Onumo, Inuwa detailed the agency’s strategic initiatives aimed at fostering a robust technology research ecosystem in Nigeria.
The establishment of these research centers is a critical component of NITDA’s mission to build a comprehensive and robust technology research ecosystem. Inuwa emphasized that the initiative aligns with NITDA’s focus on developing innovation sandboxes. These sandboxes will serve as testing grounds for innovators, allowing them to develop use cases, establish businesses, and bring their products to market.
“We are committed to creating an environment where innovation can thrive. These research centers will be pivotal in supporting Nigerian startups and fostering development in emerging technologies,” stated Onumo on behalf of Inuwa.
NITDA’s research initiatives will concentrate on several cutting-edge technologies, including:
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Blockchain Technology
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
- Additive Manufacturing
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Robotics
These focus areas have been identified as crucial for driving technological advancement and economic growth in Nigeria. By supporting research and development in these fields, NITDA aims to position Nigeria as a leader in technological innovation in Africa.
A key aspect of NITDA’s initiative is the support for Nigerian startups developing products in these emerging technologies. The agency recognizes the importance of nurturing homegrown talent and providing the necessary resources for startups to succeed. This support will include access to research facilities, funding opportunities, and mentorship programs.
Inuwa also highlighted NITDA’s role in supporting the 3MTT program, an ambitious federal government initiative aimed at training three million technical talents by 2027. Launched by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, in November 2023, the 3MTT program is a cornerstone of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy (FMCIDE).
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