The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Nigerian startups for global relevance through targeted exposure, capacity building, and international partnerships.
This assurance was given by NITDA’s Director-General, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, at the North Central leg of its nationwide startup roadshow ahead of the highly anticipated GITEX Nigeria 2025.
Held in Abuja, the roadshow focused on the theme “Bridging Nigeria’s Innovation with Global Opportunities”, bringing together promising startups across North Central Nigeria.
The initiative is part of NITDA’s broader strategic plan to unlock global tech markets for Nigerian innovators by harnessing platforms like GITEX, organized in partnership with the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
GITEX Nigeria 2025: Launchpad for African Innovation
GITEX Nigeria 2025, scheduled for September 1–4 in Lagos and Abuja, is expected to attract over 1,000 startups, 300 global investors, and 20,000 attendees from across Africa and beyond.
This pan-African tech gathering is designed to spotlight African solutions, stimulate investment, and promote innovation on a global scale.
According to Inuwa, represented by Mr. Olawunmi Oladejo, Director of IT Infrastructure Solutions, NITDA’s national roadshow is a deliberate push to ensure that no bright idea is left behind.
“We are creating pathways from local ingenuity to global impact,” he said, emphasizing the role of collaboration with DWTC in scaling local startups.
National Exposure and Capital Access for Local Tech Startups
The roadshow, which began in July, will traverse Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones: Lagos, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Abuja, Gombe, and Kano. It aims to give visibility to homegrown tech solutions, expand access to funding, and prepare startups for global competition.
Ms. Victoria Fabunmi, National Coordinator at the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation, noted that hosting GITEX underscores Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
“We want to ensure that beyond the opportunities you get at GITEX, we’re setting you up for global success and recognition,” she said.
North Central Pitch: Winners Ready for Global Stage
At the North Central pitch competition, 18 startups presented innovations spanning education, health, and logistics. The top five were selected based on originality, scalability, impact, visibility, sustainability, and global relevance.
Among the winners, Hi-Prep (an edtech solution), Fundusai (a healthtech platform), and Letmoveit.ng (a logistics startup) emerged as the top three and will be sponsored by NITDA to GITEX. Hi-Prep founder Adanma Ugo expressed gratitude, stating, “Creating the app hasn’t been easy, but I’m glad it’s making a difference.”
Startups Encouraged to Target Global Markets
DWTC’s Country Representative, Mr. Akande Ojo, urged participants to align their innovations with international market needs. He emphasized the importance of tailoring solutions and presentations for target markets to attract global investors.
With increased visibility, investor access, and cross-border partnerships, NITDA’s efforts are positioning Nigeria as a rising force in global tech innovation.
GITEX Nigeria 2025 is set to become a springboard for homegrown startups to achieve global relevance in the digital economy.
