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October 09.2025

2 Minutes Read

Nigeria's New Startup Council Leaders: Who Will Shape Innovation Policy?

Man discussing Nigeria Startup Act implementation in office setting.

Nigeria Strengthens Startup Ecosystem with New Council Appointments

Nigeria's National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has made headlines by appointing four influential figures from the startup landscape to the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE). This initiative marks a pivotal advancement in implementing the Nigeria Startup Act, a legislative framework aimed at harmonizing government policies with the burgeoning tech sector in the country.

The selected representatives—Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Victoria Manya, Charles Uchenna Emembolu, and Abba Ibrahim Gamawa—are expected to champion the interests of the startup community. Serving two-year terms, they will provide insights and recommendations to ensure that the council's actions align with the objectives of the Startup Act. As per NITDA’s announcement, their roles are crucial in fostering an inclusive environment that amplifies innovation to yield significant economic and social returns.

The Role of the Council in Operationalizing the Startup Act

The NCDIE's responsibilities extend beyond representation; it is charged with guiding critical reforms such as startup labelling, investment incentives, and capacity-building initiatives. This framework is essential as Nigeria seeks to position itself as a leading digital innovation hub within Africa. Experts foresee that these representatives will play a significant role in transforming the startup landscape by having direct input into policymaking processes.

Challenges Ahead: Realizing the Potential of the Startup Act

Despite the significant step of integrating startup leaders into policy discussions, analysts caution that the effective implementation of the Startup Act remains fraught with challenges. Delays in launching associated incentives like tax breaks and funding access could hinder the Act’s impact. Furthermore, resource limitations and inter-agency coordination issues pose risks that need strategic management to translate policy into actionable outcomes.

Ultimately, the government's commitment to promoting digital innovation must include meaningful follow-through to truly empower the startup ecosystem. As Nigeria aims for ambitious growth in tech, the focus must remain on overcoming these obstacles to ensure that innovation thrives, responding effectively to the dynamic demands of the market.

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Nigeria's New Startup Council Leaders: Who Will Shape Innovation Policy?

Nigeria Strengthens Startup Ecosystem with New Council Appointments

The Role of the Council in Operationalizing the Startup Act

Challenges Ahead: Realizing the Potential of the Startup Act

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