Nigeria Must Embrace Innovation or Risk Economic Collapse – DG NITDA Dr. Inuwa Warns at Economic Confidential Lecture.

By Raymond Enoch.

Nigeria must embrace Artificial Intelligence or risk economic stagnation in the coming decade, warned Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), at the 3rd Annual Economic Confidential Public Lecture and PR Nigeria Book Presentation held today at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

Addressing a gathering of top policymakers, public relations experts, book authors and economic strategists, Dr Inuwa delivered a powerful keynote on the theme “Agenda for a Digital Global Economy,” underscoring how the digital economy—driven by AI and data innovation—has become a game-changer for nations hoping to compete on the global stage.

“From the Industrial Revolution to the age of Artificial Intelligence, economies have thrived on innovation. Nigeria must not be left behind,” Inuwa stated, drawing applause from the packed hall.

The event, organized by Economic Confidential, is fast becoming one of Nigeria’s premier platforms for policy dialogue and media-driven economic advocacy. Mallam Yushau Shuaib, founder of Economic Confidential, welcomed guests with a firm reminder of the publication’s commitment to national development through informed discourse.

“We are poised to contribute to meaningful national conversations that can reposition the economy for enhanced productivity,” Shuaib declared.

Chaired by Dr. Olojede Olajuan of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the event also featured the official presentation of new books published by PR Nigeria, celebrating the voices of rising Nigerian authors. Their families, dignitaries, and scholars graced the occasion, lending a cultural and intellectual tone to the proceedings.

Inuwa’s lecture explored the trajectory of the world economy from steam engines to silicon chips, urging Nigerian financial institutions and policymakers to retool their strategies to align with digital realities. He particularly emphasized the role of AI in rewriting national economic narratives—through smart governance, automated financial systems, and predictive analytics in public policy.

The event sparked robust discussions about Nigeria’s digital future, with experts urging increased investment in digital infrastructure, data literacy, and local tech innovation.

As the curtains fell, one message echoed across the hall: the future is digital—and Nigeria must act now.