By 
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Platform (YEIP), a strategic initiative designed to accelerate innovation and strengthen youth-led enterprises across Nigeria and Africa.
YEIP Aligns with Nigeria’s Digital Economy Goals
Welcoming a YEIP delegation in Abuja, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, described the platform as timely, aligning with Nigeria’s digital economy agenda and the Federal Government’s diversification strategy.
“This is the perfect moment for YEIP’s entry,” Abdullahi said. “As Nigeria positions itself for digital exports and global investment, MSMEs and start-ups must collaborate. YEIP is well placed to bridge this opportunity.”
Empowering MSMEs and Women Entrepreneurs
Abdullahi highlighted the vital role of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and innovation pipeline. He emphasized that when supported with technology, finance, and capacity-building, MSMEs can evolve into globally competitive businesses.
He further noted NITDA’s special focus on women entrepreneurs, stating: “Without strengthening women-led MSMEs, the innovation ecosystem cannot flourish. YEIP’s intervention complements our inclusivity efforts.”
Pan-African Reach of YEIP
Leading the delegation, YEIP Country Lead, Surayya Ahmad, described YEIP as a pan-African initiative of the African Development Bank (AfDB). Already active in Liberia, the platform will soon expand to Tunisia, Rwanda, Kenya, and Egypt.
With a capitalisation target of $300 million, including $100 million anchored by Nigeria’s Federal Government, YEIP will provide equity, credit guarantees, technical assistance, and ecosystem support. Ahmad stressed that the platform covers diverse sectors, including agriculture, trade, manufacturing, creative industries, and digital enterprises.
Collaboration for Digital Transformation
Ahmad praised NITDA’s central role in YEIP’s rollout, particularly in policy alignment, start-up pipeline development, and ecosystem strengthening. “NITDA is not only the Startup Act secretariat but also a leader in Nigeria’s digital transformation. We see NITDA as a key partner in YEIP’s journey,” she said.
