Itana, which is backed and financed by the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), allows companies to set up virtual operations in Nigeria, giving them instant access to local talent and markets without the overheads associated with physical offices, all while enjoying favourable business incentives.

Itana is seeking to become the African jurisdiction of choice for global tech companies seeking to expand into the continent in order to seize the growth opportunities available in this dynamic and fast-growing region, powering foreign direct investment into the continent and creating jobs.

Dr Jumoke Oduwole, the Honourable Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment, visited Itana’s home within the Alaro City Free Zone last week and signed an MOU with Itana under the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP). NATEP is a federal initiative designed to position Nigeria as a global hub for digital services.

The MOU sees the government offer its support and resources to leverage the potential of digital free zones to create 100,000 high-value jobs over the next five years as part of NATEP.

HE Dr Oduwole said: “Two years into President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria is boldly charting a reform-driven path to inclusive growth. We have marked this journey at Alaro City Free Zone, home to Itana, Nigeria’s first Digital Special Economic Zone.

“The more than $1 trillion global services market is growing fast – and Nigeria is ready to lead Africa’s charge with our youthful, English-speaking, and digitally savvy population,” she added.

The MOU signals the government’s strong support for Itana’s mission to help pan-African and global technology firms operate and scale with ease across the continent, fostering innovation and driving technological advancement in Nigeria’s digital economy.

Luqman Edu, Itana’s Co-fFounder and CEO, said: “We are proud to have hosted the Honorable Minister and to have demonstrated how Itana is set to play a vital role in attracting global tech companies to set up shop in Nigeria – and unlock the potential of the continent’s digital economy.

“Africa is a continent of immense opportunities, with fast-growing economies and an increasingly large, digitally skilled young population. Given this, global tech firms are eager to expand into Africa’s markets and access local talent, which Itana allows them to do with unprecedented ease,” Edu added.

“This agreement opens the door for international tech firms to seamlessly launch operations in Nigeria, positioning the country as the preferred gateway for global companies expanding into Africa.”