The Startup Consultative Forum (SCF) has successfully concluded its election process, resulting in the emergence of four representatives who will serve on the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE).
The NCDIE, established under the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA), serves as the apex governance body responsible for driving the growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.
The newly elected startup representatives are:
- Iyinoluwa Aboyeji – South West
- Charles Uchenna Emembolu – South East
- Abba Ibrahim Gamawa – North East
- Victoria Ojoagefu Manya – North Central
Mrs Hadiza Umar, Director, Corporate Communications & Media Relations at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) said in a statement on Monday, that these distinguished individuals will represent the voices of startup founders and innovators from across the country.
Their inclusion on the Council she stated, ensures that grassroots innovators, digital entrepreneurs, and technology leaders actively contribute to shaping policies and strategies that directly influence the development of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
Digital TimesNG understands that the election process was coordinated by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) under the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in strict accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Startup Act.
Following the inauguration of the Startup Consultative Forum earlier in 2025, members from all six geopolitical zones nominated and voted for their regional representatives. This transparent and inclusive process reflects ONDI and NITDA’s dedication to fostering stronger collaboration among government, innovators, and industry stakeholders.
The National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE) plays a pivotal role in implementing the Nigeria Startup Act. The Council formulates policies, coordinates strategic initiatives, and provides oversight to support the establishment and scaling of innovation-driven enterprises nationwide.
For the first time in Nigeria’s history, the Council now includes democratically elected representatives from the startup community, alongside government agencies, regulators, investors, academia, and other key stakeholders, marking a significant milestone in inclusive governance for the digital economy.
The election of these representatives represents a major step forward in operationalizing the Nigeria Startup Act. It allows startup founders to participate directly in national policy discussions that impact innovation, digital entrepreneurship, and the overall business environment.
This development is expected to strengthen trust between the government and the innovation community, enhance feedback mechanisms on policy formulation, and create a more enabling environment for young entrepreneurs to thrive.
As the Council commences its work, the contributions of these newly elected members will be critical to shaping the future of Nigeria’s startup landscape, promoting inclusivity, driving innovation, and ensuring that technological advancement translates into meaningful economic and social impact across the nation.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), through ONDI, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to building a thriving digital economy by nurturing startups and fostering partnerships that make innovation a cornerstone of national development.
