The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s creative and arts sector through digital innovation, supportive regulations, and improved infrastructure. The agency said this effort aligns with the economic diversification agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes industrialization, digitization, manufacturing, and the creative economy.
Speaking at Moment 2026, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, (represented by Dr. Ayodeji Eniola), highlighted the growing economic value of Nigeria’s creative industry, currently estimated at over $9 billion, with the potential to surpass $13 billion with the right support. He noted that the sector has evolved from cultural expression into a major economic driver.
NITDA’s strategy focuses heavily on digital skills development. Through initiatives like the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, the agency is equipping young Nigerians with skills in areas such as animation, visual effects, game development, and digital media to compete globally.
The agency is also investing in critical digital infrastructure, including the National Sovereign Cloud Initiative, to provide secure and scalable computing resources, and supporting broadband expansion projects like Project BRIDGE to enhance connectivity nationwide.
In addition, NITDA is strengthening regulatory frameworks around cybersecurity and data protection to safeguard intellectual property and build trust in digital platforms. Through the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), it is advancing artificial intelligence research and capacity building, enabling creators to adopt emerging technologies.
Overall, NITDA emphasised that Nigeria’s creative output is not just entertainment but a key source of innovation, economic growth, and global influence, pledging continued support to help the sector grow sustainably and contribute to national development.
