Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the government’s reforms across sectors, particularly in the technology ecosystem, are yielding significant economic impact and boosting investor confidence.

Shettima made the remarks at the Digital Nigeria International Conference and Exhibition (DNICE 2025), organized by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The three-day event carried the theme: “Innovation for a Sustainable Digital Future: Accelerating Growth, Inclusion, and Global Competitiveness.”

Reforms Driving Confidence and Innovation

Shettima noted that global economic uncertainties, rapid technological shifts, and displacement of traditional jobs compelled the government to act decisively.

“Our economic reforms are stabilising the sector, and these measures have inspired investor confidence. The world is taking note of Nigeria’s steady progress,” he said.

He emphasized that digital innovation is a sustainable and inclusive pathway to economic transformation, ensuring that the gains of development reach the average Nigerian.

“We must move beyond basic applications of technology to building deep tech solutions in agriculture, health, logistics, and governance. A well-coordinated digital approach across the country is critical,” Shettima stated.

Policy, Infrastructure, and Human Capital

Shettima highlighted that the government’s strategy focuses on developing people, infrastructure, and strong policy frameworks.

“The success of our cashless reforms has positioned Nigeria as one of Africa’s most dynamic fintech ecosystems. Now we are opening the next frontier,” he added, noting progress on the National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill, which aims to enhance transparency, governance, and service delivery.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, said Nigeria boasts the highest number of unicorns in Africa, attracting investments that generate jobs, products, and innovations driving national growth. He highlighted ongoing projects, including 90,000 kilometres of open-access fibre and plans to install 4,000 telecom towers to connect 20 million underserved Nigerians.

Youth as the Engine of Growth

Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of NITDA, stressed the importance of harnessing Nigeria’s youthful population of over 220 million, with an average age of 18, to drive national and continental prosperity.

“Engaging, empowering, and providing platforms for our youth to showcase creativity is vital. This is our most valuable asset as a nation,” he said.

The DNICE 2025 conference attracted 4,800 participants from 12 countries and 25 Nigerian states, underscoring Nigeria’s growing role as a hub for digital innovation in Africa.