The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has inaugurated a nine-member Start-up Labeling Committee to ensure the implementation of the Nigeria Start-up Act (NSA).

NITDA director-general Kashifu Inuwa inaugurated the committee in Abuja on Friday.

A statement by NITDA spokeswoman Hadiza Umar said the committee was comprised of representatives from both the public and private sectors.

“The composition of the committee reflects the emphasis on collaboration. Representatives from government agencies, industry experts, investors, and start-up founders will bring their diverse perspectives and experiences.

“This collaborative approach is expected to lead to a more efficient and effective labelling process, ultimately benefiting the growth of Nigerian start-ups,” Mr Inuwa said.

Mr Inuwa added that President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to fostering an environment conducive to the growth and success of young Nigerian innovators was the prime factor in the committee’s inauguration.

He acknowledged the pivotal role start-ups would play in propelling the nation’s economic development and the significance of the committee’s work in nurturing and supporting their enterprises.’

Mr Inuwa said, ”With the right support, the young innovators could transform their ideas into thriving enterprises. Hence, it contributes significantly to job creation and the overall economic prosperity of Nigeria.”

Mr Inuwa urged the stakeholders to create a robust ecosystem to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs to flourish and contribute to the country’s progress.

Victoria Fabunmi, national coordinator of the Office for Nigeria Digital Innovation, said part of the committee’s terms of reference included reviewing and evaluating start-ups’ applications for labels based on criteria defined in the act.

Ms Fabunmi further said they were expected to periodically review and update additional labeling criteria to ensure alignment with industry trends and objectively evaluate submitted applications for ‘Start-up Label’.

(NAN)