Four representatives have emerged from the Startup Consultative Forum’s (SCF) successful election process to serve on the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE). The Nigeria Startup Act (NSA) created the NCDIE, the highest governing body, to promote the expansion, viability, and competitiveness of Nigeria’s startup agenda. The representatives who were recently elected are Iyinoluwa Aboyeji – South West Charles Uchenna Emembolu – South East Abba Ibrahim Gamawa – North East Victoria Ojoagefu Manya – North Central These distinguished individuals will represent the voices of startup founders and innovators from across the country. Their inclusion in the Council will ensure that grassroots innovators, digital entrepreneurs, and technology leaders play an active role in shaping policies and strategies that directly impact the growth of the Nigerian startup ecosystem. The National Information Technology Development Agency’s (NITDA) Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) oversaw the election process in close adherence to the Nigeria Startup Act’s (NSA) guidelines. Members from each of the nation’s six geopolitical zones nominated and elected representatives for their zones after the Startup Consultative Forum was established earlier in 2025. This transparent and inclusive process underscores the commitment of ONDI and NITDA to strengthening collaboration among government, innovators, and industry stakeholders. The primary organization tasked with promoting the successful execution of the Nigeria Startup Act is the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE). The Council formulates policies, coordinates strategic initiatives, and provides oversight that supports the establishment and scaling of innovation-driven enterprises in Nigeria. For the first time in the nation’s history, the Council now incorporates democratically elected representatives from the startup community alongside government agencies, regulators, investors, academia, and other stakeholders, a landmark achievement for inclusive governance. The election of startup representatives to the NCDIE is a significant step in implementing the NSA, as it allows startup founders to participate directly in discussions about key policy decisions that affect Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. This move reflects a collective commitment to shaping the country’s digital future. It is anticipated that this development will enhance trust between the government and the digital innovation community, improve the feedback process on policies, and foster a more supportive environment for young entrepreneurs to thrive. As the Council begins its work, the contributions of these elected representatives will play a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s startup ecosystem, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring that innovation yields tangible economic and social impact across the Nigeria. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting startups, building a robust digital economy, and fostering the kind of collaboration that ensures innovation becomes a cornerstone of national development through ONDI
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