Nigeria is deepening ties with Japan to boost its digital economy and nurture local startups.
Officials say joint incubation programs and policy reforms are turning challenges into opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Nigeria is strengthening its partnership with Japan to drive the growth of its digital economy and support local startups.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) said its work with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is helping to grow the country’s technology sector. Together, they run iHatch, an incubation program that offers training, mentorship and seed funding to new businesses. One of its beneficiaries, AGROVESTO, is using technology to improve supply chains for smallholder farmers.
NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa said the collaboration is turning local challenges into opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs. “Nigeria is home to over 200 fintech startups revolutionizing financial services, fostering inclusion and empowering millions,” he said in a statement. He also highlighted Paystack, Flutterwave and Paga as examples of homegrown companies with a strong presence across Africa.
The initiative aligns with the Nigeria Startup Act, which offers tax incentives, easier registration processes and test environments to attract investors and reduce hurdles for innovators.
Japan’s JICA has recently increased its involvement in Nigeria’s technology sector. JICA’s country representative, Ishigame Kenji, urged AGROVESTO to extend its services to more farmers, reflecting Tokyo’s interest in agritech as part of a broader development plan.
Nigeria, where nearly half of the population is under 18, has seen a rise in venture-backed startups despite currency fluctuations and high inflation. Officials hope that a mix of foreign partnerships and policy reforms will help sustain growth and improve infrastructure in the country’s technology ecosystem.
