By Nigerian startups raising $635 million in the first nine months of 2026, the ₦3 billion pipeline has further strengthens the country’s position as a leading destination for startup investment in Africa.
According to the Director General of the Nigeria Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mr Kashifu Inuwe, the Digital Nigeria International Conference and Exhibition is a major boost to Nigeria’s startup ecosystem with the introduction of the Builders Festival, an initiative targeting ₦3 billion in investments and contracts for Nigerian startups.
A statement by the Director of Communication and External Relation, Mrs Hadiza Umar, the NITDA boss made this known at the Digital Nigeria International Conference and Exhbititon held in Abuja.
The NITDA boss stated that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and ongoing economic reforms aimed at creating an enabling environment for businesses, attracting investment and strengthening private-sector participation in Nigeria’s economic growth.
He added that the initiative connects Nigerian innovators with real business opportunities by matching pre-qualified startups with over 100 verified operational challenges submitted by ministries, government agencies, corporate organisations and financial institutions.
Through its Deal Room, the three-day festival provided a platform for startups and potential clients to negotiate pilot projects, sign Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and secure investment and contract opportunities.
Beyond attracting investment, the initiative addresses a critical challenge facing Nigerian startups: access to customers, noting that the project will encourage public institutions and private organisations to adopt locally developed solutions, create pathways for Nigerian startups to scale, generate jobs, retain talent and contribute to the growth of the digital economy.
The Builders Festival demonstrates how the Digital Nigeria International Conference is translating conversations and innovation into tangible economic opportunities, positioning homegrown solutions at the centre of Nigeria’s development.
