Emerging technologies vital in revolutionising African trade- NITDA DG

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has said that the transformative potential of emerging technologies is vital in revolutionising trade and investment across Africa.

He said this while delivering a keynote address at the Nigeria AfCFTA Hackathon 2025, held as part of the Science of Trade Conference in Lagos State.

Inuwa highlighted how digital innovation can drive efficiency, inclusivity, and sustainable economic growth.

The DG who was represented by Engr. Salisu Kaka, Director of Digital Economy Development Department, stated that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is one of the largest free trade zones globally, uniting over 1.4 billion people with a collective GDP exceeding $3 trillion.

He described the recent adoption of the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol as a pivotal milestone that will break down trade barriers, streamline regulations, and open new markets for businesses of all sizes.

In his welcome address, Dr. Olusegun Awolowo, National Coordinator of the Nigeria AfCFTA Coordination Office—represented by Olusegun Olutayo, Senior International Trade Policy and Law Expert, emphasised that transformation is a continuous journey.

He highlighted the continent’s focus on collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth as essential to establishing Africa as a hub for digital trade.

Awolowo reaffirmed the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), emphasising that it presents Africa as a unified market of over one billion people—a vast opportunity for intra-African trade, investment, and economic growth.

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