By Nkechi Eze
Students of the Department of International Relations at Madonna University have undertaken a study tour to the headquarters of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), where they gained firsthand insight into Nigeria’s evolving digital economy and innovation ecosystem.
The visit provided the students with a rare opportunity to observe the operations of Nigeria’s apex information technology regulator and development agency, which continues to play a central role in shaping the country’s digital transformation agenda.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, Dr. Dimie Wariowei, emphasized the often-unseen impact of the agency’s work on everyday life in Nigeria. He noted that many citizens remain unaware of how deeply NITDA’s policies and interventions influence national development and digital inclusion.
Dr. Wariowei explained that by the end of the visit, the students would better understand how significantly Nigeria’s digital evolution has already shaped their daily experiences, even without direct awareness of the underlying systems driving it.
He further highlighted NITDA’s role as a leading IT regulator and development catalyst, noting that the agency has evolved into a key driver of economic growth through policy formulation and digital initiatives that contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.
The Director also underscored ongoing collaboration between NITDA and the Federal Ministry of Education aimed at standardising both physical and virtual learning environments across the country. According to him, the initiative is designed to build a unified digital education infrastructure that ensures equitable access to quality learning resources for students nationwide, regardless of location.
The study tour concluded with a practical engagement at the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), where the students were exposed to emerging technologies being developed and deployed within Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
At the facility, the delegation observed ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics, highlighting how automation and digital innovation are reshaping Nigeria’s workforce, strengthening productivity, and positioning the country for greater competitiveness in the global digital economy.
The visit was described as both educational and transformative, offering participants a clearer understanding of Nigeria’s strategic direction in technology-driven development and the role of institutions like NITDA in shaping that future.
