In a recent address at the Innovation Support Network (ISN) 2023 Annual Gathering, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), stressed the critical role of collaboration in sustaining innovation within the technology sector. Abdullahi emphasized that sustainable innovation cannot be achieved by one entity alone; it necessitates collective efforts across the ecosystem.
Speaking at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre, Abuja, during the event themed “Unlocking Potential: Collaborating for Growth and Impact,” Abdullahi highlighted that over 60% of global innovation now involves collaborative efforts between various organizations. He referenced a 2020 report by Microsoft, illustrating how digital collaboration significantly impacts business operations and innovation, with over 95% of Fortune 500 companies relying on Microsoft Cloud services.
Represented by Yakubu Musa, the National Coordinator of the Office of the Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), Abdullahi further underlined collaboration as a key competitive advantage in all socioeconomic spheres. He stressed NITDA’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for collaborative growth and impact within the digital innovation ecosystem through strategic policies, guidelines, and partnerships.
Abdullahi pointed out the establishment of two Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), ONDI and the National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), as a testament to NITDA’s dedication to collaboration. He encouraged both public and private sector stakeholders to leverage collaborative opportunities for a prosperous and sustainable digital innovation ecosystem.
International perspectives from the Finland Ambassador to Nigeria, Leena Pylvänäinena, and Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Khalil Halilu, further echoed the significance of collaboration for success, innovation, and economic growth within the tech industry.
