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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has unveiled a framework to promote smart innovations and boost digital innovations in the country. The draft of the new policy, titled, “Nigeria Smart Initiative Policy Framework (NSIPF)”, was presented to stakeholders in Abuja.

The framework, according to NITDA, will enable the country to leverage technology to grow critical sectors of the economy. As the world moves into an internet economy, this poses a threat to oil-based economies like Nigeria and other economies that depend heavily on natural resources. The policy aims to get the country ready for a digital economy.

“Nigeria cannot rely on meeting its objectives on sustainable economic development through conventional policies, hence the need for a well-thought-out smart policy framework,” said Isa Pantami, Director-General of NITDA. “Looking at our population, digital literacy level and commitment to technology promotion and adoption, it is the best time to use this smart initiative to ensure that we move to the next level”.

Pantami added that the framework will provide a strong foundation for adopting digital-inclined solutions needed to solve the numerous challenges facing the country. NITDA noted that the policy is consistent with the recommendations of international reports for Nigeria to improve investment in technology so that it can compete favourably with other countries in the global market. The agency said it will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to address the challenges of funding and infrastructure that might impede the full implementation of the NSIPF.

Created in April 2001, NITDA is saddled with the responsibility of implementing Nigeria’s information technology policy and coordinating general IT development in the country.