Nigeria and Finland have entered into a new agreement to bolster collaboration in digitalisation, innovation, and emerging technologies, signalling a significant enhancement of bilateral ties in the digital sector.
The federal government officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Finnish government in Abuja, as announced by Isime Esene, the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. The agreement was executed by the Nigerian Minister, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, and Mr. Jarno Syrjälä, the Under Secretary of State (International Trade) from Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
According to a statement, this MoU establishes a robust framework for cooperation across several critical areas. These include digital government initiatives, the development of emerging technologies, building digital public infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity measures, fostering innovation ecosystems, and undertaking capacity-building programs.
The pact underscores a shared commitment from both nations to harness the power of digital transformation as a key driver for sustainable economic development, the delivery of efficient public services, and the promotion of inclusive innovation.
"Today's MoU-signing marks an important step in strengthening the partnership between both countries as we work to build a more inclusive, innovation-driven digital economy," a statement read.
Minister Dr. Tijani highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating, "This agreement is a significant next step following our engagements in Helsinki in February, where we met with key stakeholders including Finnvera and Finnfund, and held productive discussions on advancing collaboration around digital infrastructure, the Data Exchange Platform, and opportunities for Finnish participation in Project BRIDGE."
He further expressed confidence that the partnership would "unlock meaningful opportunities for both countries, enabling us to leverage digital transformation as a catalyst for sustainable growth and shared prosperity."
Mr. Syrjälä conveyed Finland's enthusiasm, saying, "Finland is very pleased to deepen its partnership with Nigeria in building resilient, secure, and human centric digital societies."
He elaborated on Finland's vision for digitalization, noting, "Digitalisation is at its best when it empowers people, strengthens trust, and creates new opportunities for innovation."
Syrjälä emphasized Nigeria's importance as a partner for Finland in Africa and stated that the MoU provides a "strong basis for concrete cooperation between our governments, institutions, and private sectors."
He concluded, "Together, we can advance digital solutions that are interoperable, future fit, and beneficial to both our nations."
The newly signed MoU complements existing Finland–Nigeria collaborations in the digital sphere. This includes Finland's leading role in the EU’s Team Europe Initiative focused on supporting digital public services and promoting inclusive digital skills within Nigeria.
Mr. Syrjälä added that this program, managed by Finland’s development agency HAUS in collaboration with Estonia’s development agency ESTDEV, is fully aligned with Nigeria’s national digital transformation strategy.
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