The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence in driving Nigeria’s economic growth. He made this known while delivering the keynote address at the Third Edition of the Annual Economic Confidential Lecture and PRNigeria Book Presentation held in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme “Agenda for a Digital Global Economy,” Inuwa traced the journey of human development from the industrial revolution to the present era of artificial intelligence. He explained that AI should not be seen as a replacement for humans but as a tool to empower them.
According to him, “Artificial intelligence is not meant to replace humans but to empower them, enhancing productivity in academia, agriculture, and business.”
Inuwa linked this vision to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing the relevance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eight priority areas. He shared details of NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), built on eight pillars that are designed to advance Nigeria’s digital economy. He noted that AI adoption would play a critical role in achieving Nigeria’s ambition of becoming a $1 trillion economy.
“Embracing AI is central to achieving the $1 trillion economy benchmark. This technology holds the power to transform our economy and position Nigeria as Africa’s leader in the AI revolution,” he said.
The event also featured the unveiling of three new books written by five authors. The titles include Renewed Hope in Central Banking, Healing Nigeria: Diplomacy and Digital Defence, and Diplomacy and Digital Innovation.
In recognition of his role in promoting digital transformation in Nigeria, PRNigeria presented Kashifu Inuwa with an Award of Excellence, naming him CEO of the Year 2025.