NITDA Launches Nationwide Expansion of Hub Managers Training Programme
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NITDA Launches Nationwide Expansion of Hub Managers Training Programme
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched a nationwide expansion of its Hub Managers training programme, aimed at harnessing technological innovation to improve the lives of Nigerians, create jobs, and foster economic diversification.
This initiative is in line with the presidential priority area of Reforming the Economy for Sustained Inclusive Growth and Accelerating Diversification through Industrialisation and Digitisation.
The programme, which has already trained 50 startups in its pilot phase, resulting in the creation of 179 direct jobs and over 1,500 indirect jobs, is set to expand to all 37 states, creating 740 direct jobs and 7,400 indirect jobs by the end of the year.
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According to NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, the iHatch initiative is designed to empower hubs to build robust incubation systems to support startups locally, develop strong regional ecosystems through partnerships and engagement, enhance their operational and mentorship capacity, and provide access to international exchange programmes towards the adoption of best global practices.
Inuwa emphasized the importance of leveraging digital technology at the grassroots level to solve local problems across various sectors, including agriculture and small-scale trade.
“We don’t want technological innovation to be concentrated only in Lagos and Abuja. We want to take it to the grassroots and use it to solve real-life problems.”
The NITDA DG also highlighted the importance of collaboration, networking, and ecosystem development in driving innovation.
“To sustain this initiative, we must build a strong community where startups, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders can continuously share ideas and collaborate.”
Inuwa’s ultimate goal is to see every Nigerian digitally literate, using technology to access government and private sector services.
“We also want our market women to leverage technology to expand their businesses.”
The iHatch initiative is part of the Nigeria Startup Act, which aims to provide legal backing and incentives for startups.
The Act is expected to have a significant impact on businesses in the technology and innovation space, providing them with the necessary support, funding, and resources to grow and develop.
The nationwide expansion of the Hub Managers training programme is a significant step towards achieving the goals of the Nigeria Startup Act and promoting technological innovation and economic diversification in Nigeria.
