The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Republic of Finland in Abuja, FCT to enhance digitalisation, innovation, and the protection of Nigeria’s digital assets.
Signed on Monday, March 23, 2026, the MoU was formalised by Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Jarno Syrjälä, Finland’s Under-Secretary of State for International Trade.
It targets Nigeria’s technical talent and infrastructure, aiming to create opportunities for tech startups while strengthening cybersecurity.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Streamlining government data sharing and citizen services.
Emerging Technologies: Joint research in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain to improve efficiency.
Cybersecurity & Resilience: Protecting Nigeria’s data from cyber threats.
Innovation Ecosystems: Connecting Nigerian tech hubs with Finnish investors.
Minister Bosun Tijani said the MoU follows high-level meetings in Helsinki earlier this year with Finnvera and Finnfund.
“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,” the Minister stated.
“We are confident that this partnership will unlock meaningful opportunities for both countries, enabling us to leverage digital transformation as a catalyst for sustainable growth and shared prosperity,” he added.
Jarno Syrjälä emphasised Finland is offering more than tools, it brings a philosophy of trust.
“Digitalisation is at its best when it empowers people, strengthens trust, and creates new opportunities for innovation,” he said.
He also called Nigeria a key partner in Africa and said the MoU lays the groundwork for private sector deals.
“Nigeria is a key partner for Finland in Africa, and this MoU provides a strong basis for concrete cooperation between our governments, institutions, and private sectors,” Jarno Syrjälä stated.
The agreement aligns with the European Union’s Digital Public Services initiative. It includes training for Nigerian youth and tech professionals to manage advanced digital systems.
The goal is to ensure safer digital banking and communication, faster government services, and stronger recognition of the tech sector globally.
