Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is intensifying collaboration with the United States in a bid to reinforce the country’s digital trust ecosystem, with emphasis on data governance, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity.
The disclosure was made by NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi while speaking at the Nigeria Data Privacy Capacity Building Workshop, organised by the United States Department of State in partnership with the Nigerian Mission in Abuja.
Strengthening Capacity in Key Digital Areas
NITDA said the enhanced partnership will prioritise data privacy protection, AI development, cybersecurity resilience, and capacity building, as Nigeria accelerates its digital transformation journey.
According to Inuwa, trust remains the foundation of any successful digital economy, stressing that innovation and sustainable growth depend on secure and reliable digital systems.
He noted that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital ambitions and supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, particularly the pillar focused on strengthening national security to enable peace and prosperity.
Momentum in U.S.–Nigeria Digital Relations
The renewed collaboration builds on a growing U.S.–Nigeria digital partnership, which gained traction following the April 2024 Binational Commission meeting and a jointly organised Artificial Intelligence Conference.
Subsequently, both governments co-hosted another AI-focused event, while engagements with U.S. cybersecurity companies have continued, aimed at deepening technical cooperation and knowledge exchange within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
Why AI, Data Privacy, and Cybersecurity Must Work Together
Inuwa emphasised that AI innovation cannot be separated from data protection and cybersecurity, explaining that AI systems rely heavily on data, which must be safeguarded through strong privacy and security frameworks.
“To unlock the full value of the AI revolution, nations must strengthen data protection policies and build solid digital foundations,” he said, adding that fragmented approaches to AI and cybersecurity would limit long-term benefits.
Toward an International Cybersecurity Platform
The NITDA boss also revealed plans to scale Nigeria’s National Cybersecurity Conference into an international platform this year, following participation by the U.S. Mission at the 2025 edition.
The expanded forum is expected to attract global stakeholders, promote best practices, and improve Nigeria’s preparedness against evolving cyber threats.
Advancing Digital Self-Reliance
The collaboration comes as Nigeria steps up efforts to reduce data and financial risks associated with digital growth while building resilience across public and private sector systems.
Inuwa explained that partnerships between U.S. cybersecurity firms and Nigerian companies will support technology transfer, joint innovation, and local talent development, key pillars of Nigeria’s push for digital self-determination.
NITDA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering supportive policies and an enabling environment for innovation, positioning Nigeria and Africa as emerging hubs in the global digital economy.
