Nigeria’s next growth wave could emerge from artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technology-driven entrepreneurship.
This was the central message from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) at the Port Harcourt Tech Expo 2026, where the agency urged stakeholders to embrace innovation and emerging technologies as the foundation for Nigeria’s future prosperity.
Speaking at the event in Rivers State, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, NITDA director-general, represented by Aristotle Onumo, the director of stakeholder management and partnerships, said the global economy is rapidly shifting towards knowledge, innovation and digital capabilities.
According to him, countries that invest in digital skills, artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud computing and cybersecurity will be better positioned to create jobs, attract investments and compete in the global marketplace.
“The future is not something we inherit; it is something we build. Nigeria’s greatest resource is not oil but its people. Our ability to develop digital talent, foster innovation and create enabling ecosystems will determine our competitiveness in the digital age,” he said.
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His remarks come at a time when many countries are racing to harness AI and other advanced technologies to drive productivity and economic growth. While Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest oil producers, experts increasingly argue that long-term prosperity will depend on the country’s ability to build a strong digital economy.
The Port Harcourt Tech Expo, themed “Syntropy: Collective Futures – Systems, Solutions, Synergy and Societies,” brought together policymakers, technology leaders, startup founders, investors, academics and development partners to discuss how innovation can accelerate economic development.
A recurring theme during the discussions was the need for Nigeria to leverage its youthful population. With millions of young people entering the labour market every year, technology is being viewed as a critical sector capable of creating new opportunities and reducing unemployment.
NITDA highlighted its ongoing Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), which focuses on digital literacy, emerging technologies, cybersecurity, innovation, digital infrastructure and inclusive economic growth.
The agency also showcased several flagship initiatives designed to prepare Nigerians for the digital future. These include the Digital Literacy for All programme, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), and innovation-focused programmes under the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation.
Stakeholders at the expo noted that while Nigeria has made significant progress in building a vibrant startup ecosystem, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to financing and digital skills gaps continue to slow growth.
Participants explored ways to position the Niger Delta as a major technology and innovation hub, capable of attracting startups, investors and technology companies beyond the region’s traditional dependence on oil and gas activities.
Industry observers believe that if properly harnessed, artificial intelligence and digital technologies could unlock significant economic value across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, financial services, manufacturing and public administration.
NITDA used the platform to engage technology companies, startups, academic institutions and development partners on collaborative efforts that could accelerate digital inclusion and innovation-led development across the country.
The discussions ended with a renewed commitment by stakeholders to deepen partnerships and create opportunities for young Nigerians to participate actively in the digital economy.
As global competition increasingly revolves around data, innovation and digital capabilities, NITDA says the next chapter of Nigeria’s economic story may be written not in oil fields, but in code, algorithms and the ideas of a new generation of innovators.
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