Abuja: The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated its commitment to advancing Nigerian startups onto global platforms, aiming to ensure the sustainability of their innovative efforts. This was highlighted by Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of NITDA, during the North Central roadshow in Abuja, which served as a precursor to the Gulf International Technology Conference and Exhibition (GITEX).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the roadshow, themed ‘Bridging Nigeria’s Innovation with Global Opportunities,’ gathered startups from across the North Central region. GITEX Nigeria, slated for September 1 to 4 in Lagos and Abuja, is organized by NITDA in collaboration with the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC). Inuwa, represented by Mr. Olawunmi Oladejo, Director of IT Infrastructure Solutions, emphasized that the roadshow aims to connect Nigerian startups with global markets.
The roadshow, which started in July, will traverse all six geopolitical zones, including Lagos, Enugu, Akwa-Ibom, Abuja, Gombe, and Kano. Ms. Victoria Fabunmi, National Coordinator, Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation, noted that hosting GITEX underscores Nigeria’s expanding digital ecosystem and its global technology innovation participation. She stressed the importance of providing local tech solutions with visibility and access to both local and international capital.
Mr. Akande Ojo, Country Representative of DWTC, advised startups to focus on identifying target markets and tailoring their presentations accordingly. During the North Central roadshow, 18 startups pitched their innovations, with the top five selected. The top three startups, Hi-Prep, Fundusai, and Letmoveit.ng, will be sponsored by NITDA to participate in GITEX.
Adanma Ugo, founder of Hi-Prep, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting the challenges and impact of creating the educational application. The winners were evaluated based on criteria such as originality, impact, scalability, visibility, sustainability, global relevance, and presentation.
GITEX is expected to attract no fewer than 1,000 startups, over 300 global investors, and approximately 20,000 visitors from Africa and beyond.
