The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called for accelerated investment in digital infrastructure, describing it as a critical pillar for Nigeria’s industrialisation and long-term economic growth.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Nigeria Infrastructure Conference (INFRACON 2026) in Abuja, NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, stressed that digital infrastructure must be integrated into conventional infrastructure to unlock the country’s full industrial and economic potential.
The conference, organised by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), was themed “Mobilising Private Capital for Sustainable Infrastructure Development in Nigeria.”
Inuwa said digital technology has become indispensable across sectors, making it impossible to discuss infrastructure development without prioritising digital infrastructure.
“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 embed digital components in the conventional infrastructure we are building,” he said.
He commended the Federal Government for promoting Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a strategy to bridge Nigeria’s infrastructure gap and encouraged greater private sector participation.
The NITDA boss reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to collaborate with NACCIMA and other stakeholders in advancing the government’s infrastructure agenda, particularly in expanding the country’s digital ecosystem.
According to him, NITDA is already working with NACCIMA on plans to digitise its infrastructure and will continue supporting initiatives that strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy.
Earlier, NACCIMA President, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, described INFRACON 2026 as a strategic platform designed to mobilise private capital, innovative ideas and partnerships to drive sustainable infrastructure development.
He said the conference would focus on critical sectors including power and electricity, maritime and the blue economy, digital infrastructure, industrialisation, productivity and export growth.
Ibrahim urged stakeholders to embrace collaboration and innovation to accelerate infrastructure delivery, adding that NACCIMA is committed to identifying investment-ready projects and fostering partnerships that will help achieve Nigeria’s economic aspirations.
He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between government and the private sector would 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 said.
