Algorithms and digital innovation could drive Nigeria's next economic expansion, says NITDA

Nigerias next wave of growth is expected to emerge from artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and technology-driven entrepreneurship. This message was highlighted by the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, during the Port Harcourt Tech Expo 2026, where the agency urged stakeholders to adopt emerging technologies as the foundation for the nations future prosperity.

Shifting to a Knowledge-Based Economy

Speaking at the event in Rivers State, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, represented by the director of stakeholder management and partnerships, Aristotle Onumo, explained that the global economy is transitioning rapidly toward knowledge, innovation, and digital capabilities. He noted that countries investing in digital skills, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity will be best positioned to generate jobs, draw investments, and compete internationally.

"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.

While Nigeria remains a major oil producer in Africa, experts argue that long-term prosperity depends on building a robust digital economy. The Port Harcourt Tech Expo, themed Syntropy: Collective Futures – Systems, Solutions, Synergy and Societies, brought together policymakers, tech leaders, startup founders, investors, and academics to discuss how innovation can accelerate development.

Strategic Frameworks and Regional Tech Hubs

A major focus of the discussions was utilizing Nigerias young population to reduce unemployment and create new opportunities. To support this, NITDA highlighted its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, SRAP 2.0, which targets digital literacy, emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and inclusive growth. The agency also showcased initiatives like the Digital Literacy for All programme, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, NCAIR, and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation.

Although the startup ecosystem is growing, stakeholders pointed out that challenges such as limited financing, digital skills gaps, and inadequate infrastructure persist. Participants explored strategies to establish the Niger Delta as a prominent technology hub, shifting the region away from its traditional reliance on the oil and gas sector.

What this means for Africa: Nigeria is actively pivoting its economic strategy away from oil dependency by building regional digital hubs and training its youthful population in artificial intelligence and digital skills.