The Startup Consultative Forum (SCF), the premier governance body established under the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA), has appointed four representatives to the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE). This council is tasked with advancing the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.
The newly elected representatives are: Iyinoluwa Aboyeji from the South West; Charles Uchenna Emembolu from the South East; Abba Ibrahim Gamawa from the North East; Victoria Ojoagefu Manya from the North Central.
According to a statement from Mrs. Hadiza Umar, Director of Corporate Communications & Media Relations at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), these individuals will serve as key voices for startup founders and innovators nationwide.
“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 election process was coordinated by the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) under the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in strict compliance with the provisions of the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA),” she said.
She said following the inauguration of the Startup Consultative Forum earlier in 2025, members from all six geopolitical zones of the country nominated and voted for candidates to represent their zones.
She said the transparent and inclusive process underscores the commitment of ONDI and NITDA to strengthening collaboration among government, innovators, and industry stakeholders.
“The National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE) is the principal body mandated to drive the effective implementation of the Nigeria Startup Act.
“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), through ONDI, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to building a thriving digital economy, nurturing startups, and fostering the type of collaboration that ensures innovation becomes a cornerstone of national development,” the statement stated.
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