The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has launched a renewed push to mobilise private capital for infrastructure development, with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) reaffirming that digital infrastructure must be at the heart of Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda.
The call came at the maiden edition of the Nigeria Infrastructure Conference (INFRACON 2026), organised by NACCIMA in Abuja under the theme “Mobilising Private Capital for Sustainable Infrastructure Development in Nigeria.”
The conference brought together government officials, private-sector leaders, investors, and development partners to explore strategies to accelerate infrastructure financing and delivery.
Speaking at the event, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, stressed the need for increased investment in infrastructure, particularly by integrating digital infrastructure into conventional projects to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial capacity and drive sustainable economic growth.
According to Inuwa, integrated infrastructure is indispensable for long-term development, resilient urban systems, and improved quality of life in an increasingly digital world.
“We cannot talk about infrastructure without digital infrastructure. All organisations and industries are becoming digital. Our technology is becoming increasingly integrated. So, there is a need to integrate digital into the conventional infrastructure we are building,” Inuwa said.
He described technology as a critical enabler of Nigeria’s economic transformation, noting that expanding digital infrastructure is fundamental to achieving the country’s industrialisation objectives.
The NITDA Director General also commended the Federal Government for encouraging greater private sector participation in infrastructure development through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to collaboration, Inuwa said NITDA is ready to partner with NACCIMA and other stakeholders to strengthen the government’s infrastructure drive.
“The government has initiated Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for the private sector to be part of building the infrastructure.
“NITDA will support you to work with the government in building the digital infrastructure. We are already working with NACCIMA on how to digitise its infrastructure,” he added.
Earlier, in his welcome address, NACCIMA President, Engr. Jani Ibrahim said INFRACON 2026 was conceived as Nigeria’s premier platform for mobilising private capital, innovative ideas and strategic partnerships for sustainable infrastructure development.
He urged participants to embrace collaboration, innovation and decisive action, noting that NACCIMA is actively identifying committed partners, promoting investment-ready opportunities and tracking progress towards achieving Nigeria’s economic aspirations over the coming years.
Ibrahim disclosed that this year’s conference is focused on critical sectors, including power and electricity, the maritime and blue economy, the digital economy and digital infrastructure, infrastructure for enhanced national productivity, and infrastructure to drive industrialisation and export growth.
Expressing appreciation to participants and sponsors, the NACCIMA President reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working with stakeholders to position Nigeria as Africa’s preferred destination for digital investment.
“Together, we can mobilise the capital, build the infrastructure that powers industrialisation, expand exports, create jobs and deliver sustainable prosperity. Together, we can build the foundation for Nigeria’s one trillion-dollar economy,” he stated.
