Kano State is poised for a technological leap forward with the launch of the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency’s (KASITDA) comprehensive Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (2025-2030). This bold blueprint charts a course to transform Nigeria’s most populous state into a regional digital powerhouse while ensuring inclusive growth for all citizens.  

A Vision for Digital Transformation

The 5-year plan builds on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s vision to position Kano as West Africa’s leading digital economy. “This isn’t just about technology,” explains Bashir Abdu Muzzakari, PhD, KASITDA’s Director-General. “It’s about using digital tools to solve real problems – creating jobs, improving services, and giving our youth the skills to compete globally.”  

Nine Pillars of Progress  

The roadmap organizes its ambitious agenda around nine interconnected strategic pillars:  

1. Institutional Development and Governance

• Establish a legally empowered and technically competent agency.

• Ensure internal capacity development, transparency, and strategic leadership.

2. Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity

• Expand broadband penetration and deploy data infrastructure statewide.

• Introduce smart technologies for cities and public institutions.

3. Digital Skills and Workforce Development

• Promote digital literacy from basic to advanced levels.

• Set up digital skills academies and training centers in LGAs.

4. Innovation and Digital Entrepreneurship

• Launch innovation hubs, tech parks, and startup incubators.

• Provide financial and institutional support for innovators and entrepreneurs.

5. E-Government and Digital Public Services

• Digitize government operations and improve service delivery efficiency.

• Introduce a unified service portal and digitized record systems across MDAs.

6. Digital Inclusion and Citizen Empowerment

• Establish Community Technology Access Centres (CTACs).

• Promote digital access and equity for women, youth, and underserved populations.

7. Cybersecurity and Data Governance

• Develop cybersecurity frameworks and state-level data protection regulations.

• Establish a CERT (Computer Emergency Response Team) and promote cyber hygiene.

8. Strategic Partnerships and Funding Mobilization

• Attract private investments and international development partnerships.

• Promote Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for ICT deployment.

9. Environmental Sustainability and Green ICT

• Support solar-powered ICT centers and e-waste management programs.

• Develop a green ICT procurement policy.

Ambitious Targets 

By 2030, KASITDA aims to:  

• Train 100,000 youths in high-demand tech skills  

• Incubate 500 startups through its Digital & Creative Economy Innovation Centre  

• Achieve 80% broadband penetration statewide  

• Digitize 70% of government services  

• Establish 50 Community Technology Access Centers  

Implementation Strategy

The plan adopts a phased approach:  

Year 1: Institutional strengthening and pilot programs  

Years 2-3: Full-scale rollout of digital infrastructure and skills programs  

Years 4-5: Statewide scaling and sustainability planning  

A Digital Transformation Council chaired by the Governor will provide oversight, while quarterly progress reports will ensure accountability.  

Why This Matters 

For Kano’s tech-savvy youth population, the roadmap promises concrete opportunities. “We’re creating pathways from digital training to employment,” notes Ahmed Idris, Technical Advisor to the DG. “Whether through our startup funds, innovation challenges, or partnerships with global tech firms, we’re building bridges to the digital economy.”  

Market women, farmers, and artisans stand to benefit from e-commerce platforms and digital financial services, while improved e-government systems will reduce bureaucratic hurdles for businesses.  

A Call to Action 

As Kano embraces its digital future, KASITDA invites all stakeholders – from local tech hubs to international partners – to collaborate in bringing this vision to life. “The roadmap is our contract with the people of Kano,” declares Dr. Muzzakari. “Together, we’ll build a state where technology creates opportunities for all.”  

With its comprehensive approach and clear targets, KASITDA’s Strategic Roadmap represents Kano’s boldest step yet toward technological transformation. As implementation begins in 2025, all eyes will be on how Nigeria’s commercial capital reinvents itself for the digital age.