The recent partnership among the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Flutterwave, and Alami, marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, is a strategic collaboration aimed at addressing the digital divide in Nigeria’s economy by empowering SMEs with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital age.
The focus is on providing access to secure and efficient financial solutions, fostering fintech innovation, and promoting digital literacy across the board.
Receiving the CEOs of the three organisations, led by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, at the presidential villa, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, affirmed that his administration will support businesses in the financial technology sector that provide payment infrastructure services for Nigerians and Africans.
The President stated that Nigeria is genuinely open to business, and as president, he is determined to remove all obstacles to allow companies to thrive. While expressing his delight at the giant strides and groundbreaking innovations embarked on by the visitors in their different fields, he said, “I am honoured to be the president of a country with such a youthful and resourceful population.”
Buttressing the President’s view, Mr. Edun stated that Flutterwave has made significant progress since its establishment 10 years ago. “It has helped create jobs and diversify the economy by providing innovative digital platforms and payment services in Nigeria and across Africa,” he added.
During the signing of the MOU, the DG NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, emphasised the significance of public-private partnerships in achieving Nigeria’s digital economy aspirations. “Flutterwave’s innovative fintech solutions align with our vision for a thriving digital economy.
“Slow digital adoption among SMEs has been a major obstacle to economic growth, and through this collaboration, we aim to provide businesses with the resources and infrastructure needed to transition into the digital age,” he stated.
He mentioned that by equipping Nigerian businesses with the right tools to embrace digital solutions, the collaboration aims to enhance economic growth, create job opportunities, and ensure inclusive access to the benefits of a digital economy.
Flutterwave’s Chief Executive Officer, Olugbenga Agboola, expressed confidence in the partnership’s potential to empower SMEs, saying, “Many small businesses in Nigeria struggle to fully embrace digital solutions, and we believe that by providing seamless and secure payment technologies, we can help them scale with confidence.”
He noted that Flutterwave, valued at over $3 billion, is a Nigerian export and brand, employing over 1,000 Nigerians. He also sought the company’s inclusion into the Nigerian Exchange and solicited the president’s support in this cause
