By Our Correspondent

National News – Nigeria and Finland have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in digitalisation and innovation, marking a pivotal step in bilateral relations.

The agreement, inked in Abuja, focuses on advancing digital technologies, cybersecurity, and innovation ecosystems in Nigeria.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Jarno Syrjälä, Finland’s Under-Secretary of State for International Trade.

It creates a framework for collaboration in areas including digital government, emerging technologies, capacity building, and digital public infrastructure.

The partnership aims to leverage technology to boost economic growth, enhance public service delivery, and foster inclusive innovation across both nations.

Tijani emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating, “This MoU is a significant step in building a more inclusive, innovation-driven digital economy.

It builds on prior engagements in Helsinki, where discussions focused on digital infrastructure and future collaboration.”

He added that the partnership would act as a catalyst for sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

Syrjälä highlighted Finland’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

“Digitalisation works best when it empowers people, strengthens trust, and creates new innovation opportunities.

Nigeria is a key African partner, and this MoU lays a strong foundation for collaboration across governments, institutions, and private enterprises,” he said.

Additionally, Finland will lead a €23 million Team Europe Initiative to strengthen Nigeria’s digital public services and implement the 3 Million Technical Talent programme.

The EU-funded initiative, managed by Finland’s HAUS in partnership with Estonia’s ESTDEV, is part of the EU–Nigeria Digital Economy Package under the Global Gateway strategy.

It will expand access to secure, interoperable, and citizen-centred public services while improving institutional capacity and governance frameworks.

This agreement reflects both countries’ commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive digital economy and creating new opportunities for innovation and skill development in Nigeria.