The (NITDA) National Information Technology Development Agency has urged Kano State to reposition its economy around digital skills, innovation and technology adoption, describing them as critical to the state’s long-term growth and competitiveness.
Speaking at the Kano Start-up Weekend, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, said Kano’s economic future depends on how well it adapts to the demands of the digital economy. He noted that the state has historically served as a major centre of trade and commerce in Northern Nigeria and the Sahel, with a strong tradition of enterprise and a large, skilled population that can be leveraged for modern growth.
According to Inuwa, while Kano’s traditional commercial strengths have sustained its economy for decades, emerging global trends now require a shift towards innovation-driven development. He explained that real economic value is created when ideas are transformed into products and services that address societal and market needs, rather than remaining at the level of invention.
He stressed the importance of building a strong innovation ecosystem that connects academia, industry, start-ups and government. Kano, he noted, hosts numerous tertiary institutions, yet research outputs often remain within academic circles without being translated into practical or commercial use. He urged universities to focus research on solving real-world problems, encouraged industries to partner with research institutions to improve productivity, and advised start-ups to act as the bridge between ideas and the marketplace.
Inuwa also highlighted the role of entrepreneurship, encouraging young innovators in Kano to think beyond local markets and design solutions with regional and global relevance. He said this approach would help attract investment, create jobs and position the state as a technology hub.
On capacity building, the NITDA boss outlined the agency’s human capital development programmes, including the Digital Literacy for All initiative and the 3 Million Technical Talents programme. He explained that the Digital Literacy for All initiative aims to equip Nigerians with basic digital competencies, while the 3MTT programme focuses on developing advanced technical skills in areas such as software engineering, data analytics and emerging technologies.
He added that these programmes support the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises skills development, employment creation and inclusive economic growth. According to him, sustained investment in people and technology is essential for building a resilient economy capable of competing globally.
Inuwa called on policymakers, educators, private sector leaders and the start-up community in Kano to collaborate in creating an enabling environment for innovation. He expressed optimism that with the right mix of digital skills, partnerships and supportive policies, Kano can reinvent its economy and re-establish itself as a leading centre for innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
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