*The National Information Technology Development Agency in partnership with TikTok, a global tech giant, launches e-commerce labs initiative to deepen digital inclusion economic in Nigeria
Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect
Nigeria’s digital commerce ecosystem is receiving a considerable boost as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and TikTok have launched a strategic partnership aimed at equipping Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with digital commerce skills, tools, and opportunities.
NITDA said the objective of the training programme was to empower the SMEs to compete effectively in the global digital economy.
The Information Technology (IT) sector regulatory agency disclosed the partnership was unveiled at the launch of the TikTok Digital Commerce Labs Programme for SMEs, held in Lagos.
It said several stakeholders from government, the private sector, entrepreneurship support organisations to digital ecosystem gathered to explore innovative pathways for empowering Nigerian businesses through technology.
In his address on the occasion, Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITDA, described digital commerce as one of the most powerful drivers of economic inclusion and business growth in the modern economy.
Represented at the event by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships at NITDA, noted that access to digital skills has become increasingly critical for the survival and competitiveness of businesses in modern times.
Inuwa affirmed that the future of commerce is increasingly digital, and entrepreneurs who embrace technology would be better positioned to access larger markets, increase productivity, and create sustainable wealth.
He also observed that as Nigeria is blessed with millions of hardworking and innovative entrepreneurs, several small businesses yet lack the digital capabilities required to fully participate in the opportunities offered by the digital economy.
The Director-General further stated: “Today, a young entrepreneur with a smartphone can reach customers beyond geographical boundaries, build a brand, market products globally, and create economic opportunities that were previously unimaginable.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that every entrepreneur, regardless of location, has access to the digital skills and tools needed to succeed in this new economy.”
The agency said a major highlight of the event was the announcement of a collaborative programme between NITDA and TikTok to extend digital commerce training to SMEs across the West African country.
In respect of the initiative, NITDA disclosed TikTok had committed an initial investment of approximately US$20,000 to support a pilot Train-the-Trainer Programme.
It noted this arrangement would leverage NITDA’s Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) networks to deliver digital commerce training to entrepreneurs, particularly those in remote and underserved communities.
Commendation for TikTok for enabling SMEs in Nigeria
Inuwa commended TikTok for its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and digital inclusion in Nigeria, describing the initiative as a practical example of how technology platforms can contribute meaningfully to economic empowerment and national development.
The NITDA Chief Executive noted that the collaboration aligns with its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), particularly the Agency’s commitment to achieving widespread digital literacy, promoting innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
Technology, Inuwa stated, should not merely be viewed as a tool for communication and entertainment but as a platform for creating opportunities, generating income, and transforming lives.
Inuwa emphasises power of technology
Underscoring the significance of technology in today’s world, the Director-General of NITDA stated: “Technology is most powerful when it empowers the least connected, creates opportunities for the underserved, and transforms potential into prosperity.”
Besides, industry stakeholders at the event described the initiative as timely.
This is in regard to especially a period when businesses are increasingly leveraging digital platforms to connect with customers, expand operations, and access new markets.
Core objectives of TikTok Digital Commerce Labs
NITDA explained the TikTok Digital Commerce Labs Programme is expected to strengthen digital capabilities among SMEs, improve access to digital opportunities, and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy by enabling entrepreneurs to harness the power of technology for business development.
It is noted the launch of the digital initiative reinforced NITDA’s vision to building a digitally empowered Nation fostering inclusive economic development through technological innovation where individuals, startups, and businesses can leverage technology to create value, generate employment, and contribute to national prosperity.
As Nigeria continues its journey towards becoming a leading digital economy in Africa, collaborations such as the NITDA-TikTok partnership are expected to play a significant role in empowering citizens, fostering innovation, and expanding economic opportunities for millions of Nigerians.