The Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), under the supervision of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has announced the election of representatives to the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE), a key body established to drive Nigeria’s digital economy strategy and startup ecosystem.
Among the newly elected members is Victoria Manya, a prominent innovation advocate and ecosystem builder, who will represent the Policy and Innovation Hub category on the Council.
The Council, formed in line with the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA), brings together leaders from across the nation’s technology, investment, and innovation sectors to advise on policy direction, strengthen digital entrepreneurship, and support the implementation of initiatives that promote sustainable growth within Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.
Other elected representatives include Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Co-founder of Future Africa (Venture Capital); Charles Emembolu, Co-founder of TechQuest STEM Academy (Hub); and Abba Ibrahim Gamawa, Founder of Go Agent Limited (Startup).
A Voice for Innovation and Policy Inclusion
Victoria Manya’s election has been widely applauded across Nigeria’s innovation landscape. Known for her work in advocacy for inclusive digital policy and ecosystem development.
She has been instrumental in bridging the gap between policymakers and innovators, especially through community-led initiatives that empower startups and youth-led enterprises.
Speaking after the announcement, Manya reaffirmed her commitment to using her position to ensure that innovation policies reflect the realities of entrepreneurs and technology hubs across the country.
“This election is not just a personal milestone but a collective win for the innovation community,” she said.
“Our goal is to ensure that Nigeria’s digital economy is built on inclusivity, sustainability, and opportunities for all — from grassroots innovators to established tech leaders.”
Her representation is expected to strengthen engagement between the government and innovation clusters across Nigeria, ensuring that ecosystem voices are embedded in national digital transformation policies.
Strengthening the Startup Act Implementation
According to ONDI and NITDA, the Council’s establishment marks a significant milestone in operationalizing the Nigeria Startup Act, which seeks to create an enabling environment for startups to thrive.
The representatives will collaborate with government stakeholders to shape implementation frameworks, harmonize startup registration processes, promote access to finance, and advance research and development in emerging technologies.
Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, congratulated the elected members and emphasized the importance of the Council’s work.
“The National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship will serve as a bridge between government and industry. Its composition reflects our commitment to co-creation and inclusion in policymaking,” he said.
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About the Nigeria Startup Act
The Nigeria Startup Act, signed into law in 2022, aims to position Nigeria as a leading digital economy hub in Africa by fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurs, and strengthening regulatory frameworks for the growth of startups.
The NCDIE is a major governance structure under the Act responsible for ensuring collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
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