Startup Forum Elects Representatives into NCDIE
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Startup Consultative Forum (SCF) has concluded its election process, leading to the emergence of four regional representatives who will serve on the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE).
INCNews247 reports that the NCDIE is the apex governance body established under the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA) to champion the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of the country’s startup ecosystem.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mrs. Hadiza Umar, the newly elected representatives are Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (South-West), Charles Uchenna Emembolu (South-East), Abba Ibrahim Gamawa (North-East), and Victoria Ojoagefu Manya (North-Central).
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Umar noted that the election, which was supervised by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) under NITDA, was conducted in strict compliance with the provisions of the Nigeria Startup Act.
She explained that the process was transparent and inclusive, with members from all six geopolitical zones nominating and voting for candidates to represent their regions following the inauguration of the Startup Consultative Forum earlier in 2025.
According to her, the four elected representatives will ensure that grassroots innovators, digital entrepreneurs, and technology leaders play active roles in shaping government policies and strategies that directly impact Nigeria’s startup landscape.
The NCDIE, she added, serves as the principal body mandated to drive the effective implementation of the Nigeria Startup Act. It formulates policies, coordinates strategic initiatives, and provides oversight for innovation-driven enterprises across the country.
“For the first time in Nigeria’s history, the Council now includes democratically elected representatives from the startup community alongside government agencies, regulators, investors, academia, and other key stakeholders. This marks a major milestone for inclusive governance in the innovation sector,” Umar said.
She further stated that the election of startup representatives into the NCDIE represents a significant step toward deepening collaboration between government and innovators, improving feedback on policy implementation, and fostering an enabling environment for startups to thrive.
“As the Council begins its work, the contribution of these elected members will be instrumental in driving inclusivity, promoting innovation, and ensuring that technology yields tangible social and economic impact across Nigeria,” she said.
Umar reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment, through ONDI, to building a resilient digital economy, nurturing startups, and strengthening public-private partnerships that will position innovation as a cornerstone of national development.
