The National Information Technology Development Agency, on Monday, underscored the need for safe and responsible use of data to build a formidable digital economy ecosystem.

NITDA director-general Kashifu Inuwa said this at the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge organised by their subsidiary, Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), in Abuja.

Mr Inuwa said data sovereignty was important in ensuring Nigeria’s digital future.

“By prioritising data security and privacy, the agency aims to foster a thriving digital ecosystem that benefits both individuals and businesses.

“The issue of having something home-grown is very important because when it comes to data, you would realise that data is the currency of the digital economy. It is what is driving us now, and everything is all about data,” Mr Inuwa explained.

Mr Inuwa urged the participants to take advantage of the Nigeria Startup Act to promote their solutions in line with SRAP 2.0.

Mr Inuwa further said that according to the NSA, it was designed to provide proper funding for startups to develop their ideas, meet with angel investors and help project their innovation for commercialisation.

He also said the agency was committed to ensuring indigenous digital innovation, such as the Innovation Nests expected in 2025, would thrive.

Mr Inuwa disclosed that the innovation nests, designed to inspire creativity, have facilities for work, leisure space, and the opportunity to network with investors, would be created in nine states.

Mr Inuwa told the contestants of the challenge of leveraging the provided platforms to achieve their dreams, adding that Nigeria had the talent and NITDA would ensure that talents were nurtured and celebrated.

(NAN)