The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) says expanding digital infrastructure is crucial to Nigeria’s industrialisation plan, stressing that technology remains a leading enabler of the country’s economic development and growth.

NITDA made the declaration at the maiden edition of the Nigeria Infrastructure Conference (INFRACON 2026), organised by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industries (NACCIMA) in Abuja under the theme “Mobilising Private Capital for Sustainable Infrastructure Development in Nigeria.”

Speaking at the event, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, highlighted the need for increased infrastructure investments and the integration of digital and conventional infrastructure to expand Nigeria’s industrial capacity.

Inuwa noted that integrated infrastructure is essential for long-term growth, efficient and robust urban environments, and the overall well-being of communities in this digital era.

“We cannot talk about infrastructure without digital infrastructure. All organisations and industries are becoming digital. Our technology is becoming increasingly integrated. So, there is a need to integrate digital in the conventional infrastructure we are building’’, Inuwa said.

He commended the federal government for supporting the organised private sector in the renewed campaign to redouble Nigeria’s infrastructure assets.

The NITDA DG assured that the agency is open to partnering with NACCIMA and other stakeholders to bolster the federal government’s public-private partnership (PPP) initiative.

“The government has initiated Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for the private sector to be part of building the infrastructure.

“NITDA will support you to work with the government in building the digital infrastructure. We are already working with NACCIMA on how to digitise its infrastructure,’’ he added.

In his welcome address, the President of NACCIMA, Engr. Jani Ibrahim told participants that INFRACON 2026 is conceived to serve as Nigeria’s foremost platform for mobilising private capital, innovative ideas, and strategic partnerships for infrastructure development.

Ibrahim urged participants to approach the conference with a spirit of partnership, innovation, and action, adding that NACCIMA is taking urgent measures to identify committed partners, promote investment-ready opportunities, and monitor progress towards achieving the national economic target in the next few years.

He announced that this year’s conference focuses on priority areas, including power and electricity, maritime and blue economy, digital economy and digital infrastructure, infrastructure for increased national productivity, and infrastructure for industrialisation and export growth.

While appreciating the conference participants and sponsors, the president promised that NACCIMA is ready to walk with all stakeholders to position Nigeria as Africa’s preferred destination for digital investment.

“Together, we can mobilise the capital, build the infrastructure that powers industrialisation, expand exports, create jobs and deliver sustainable prosperity. Together, we can build the foundation for Nigeria’s one trillion-dollar economy’’, he stated. (END)

•PHOTO: Director General, NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa presenting a goodwill message at the Nigeria Infrastructure Conference (INFRACON) 2026 organised by Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (NACCIMA)

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