The Nigerian government has announced a partnership with leading technology giants to establish large-scale data centers within the country.
This development, unveiled by Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), aims to safeguard Nigeria’s data independence and foster local technological growth.
At the 3rd Biennial Corporate Governance and Enterprise Development Conference held recently in Lagos, Abdullahi outlined how the country is taking decisive steps to reclaim control over its digital assets. Currently, much of Nigeria’s data resides on platforms operated by foreign entities such as social media networks and global cloud providers, which shapes public perception and market dynamics.
To reverse this trend, the government is rolling out a comprehensive program encouraging hyperscale cloud providers to build infrastructure on Nigerian soil. This program includes a “Cloud First” policy designed to entice global cloud service leaders while utilizing domestic expertise and facilities.
Abdullahi explained that the administration’s blueprint involves categorizing data to decide which information should stay on local servers and what can be entrusted to public cloud environments beyond the nation’s borders. Concurrently, Nigeria is investing in cutting-edge frameworks for artificial intelligence governance and ethics, aligning these with its unique cultural values and societal needs. Abdullahi emphasized the dual approach of fostering innovation while enacting thoughtful regulations.
NITDA is working on an extensive program to establish over 1,600 ICT centers nationwide to enhance digital inclusion. This includes community hubs and equipped school facilities, aiming to equip Nigerians from all backgrounds with essential digital skills.
He stated that Nigerians currently lack full sovereignty over their data; most of it is controlled by platforms like Google and Microsoft, which influence what they see and believe. He added that the collaboration with Big Tech and hyperscalers, combined with new legislation, will empower Nigeria to host and manage its own data centers.
