The action plan translating the transformation agenda into delivery.
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 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 five-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 Muzakkari, 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 organises its agenda around nine interconnected strategic pillars.
- Institutional development and governance — establish a legally empowered and technically competent agency; ensure internal capacity development, transparency and strategic leadership.
- Digital infrastructure and connectivity — expand broadband penetration and deploy data infrastructure statewide; introduce smart technologies for cities and public institutions.
- Digital skills and workforce development — promote digital literacy from basic to advanced levels; set up digital skills academies and training centres in local governments.
- Innovation and digital entrepreneurship — launch innovation hubs, tech parks and startup incubators; provide financial and institutional support for innovators and entrepreneurs.
- E-government and digital public services — digitise government operations and improve service delivery efficiency; introduce a unified service portal and digitised record systems across MDAs.
- Digital inclusion and citizen empowerment — establish Community Technology Access Centres (CTACs); promote digital access and equity for women, youth and underserved populations.
- Cybersecurity and data governance — develop cybersecurity frameworks and state-level data protection regulations; establish a Computer Emergency Response Team and promote cyber hygiene.
- Strategic partnerships and funding mobilisation — attract private investment and international development partnerships; promote public-private partnerships for ICT deployment.
- Environmental sustainability and green ICT — support solar-powered ICT centres and e-waste management programmes; develop a green ICT procurement policy.
Targets for 2030
By 2030, KASITDA aims to:
- train 100,000 youths in high-demand tech skills;
- incubate 500 startups through its Digital and Creative Economy Innovation Centre;
- achieve 80% broadband penetration statewide;
- digitise 70% of government services;
- establish 50 Community Technology Access Centres.
Implementation
The plan adopts a phased approach. Year one covers institutional strengthening and pilot programmes. Years two and three deliver the full-scale rollout of digital infrastructure and skills programmes. Years four and five handle 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 Director-General. “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,” says Dr Muzakkari. “Together, we’ll build a state where technology creates opportunities for all.”
Published by the Office of the Director General, KASITDA, 2025.