Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has appointed the pioneer Director General for the ICT Directorate, which he recently established through an Executive Order forwarded to the State House of Assembly.
He is Naufal Ahmad, a seasoned Technology Ecosystem Builder, and Founder of Kirkira Innovation Hub.
Recalled that the Katsina State Government on the 8th of August 2023, forwarded an Executive Bill to the State House of Assembly for the establishment of an ICT Directorate to gather data about various sectors in the State.
Among other functions, the new Directorate shall coordinate all ICT-related activities in the State with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, and advise the Governor on all ICT-related matters, while also developing and implementing the Katsina ICT Policy Framework.
A letter of appointment signed by Alh. Abdullahi Garba Faskari, the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, revealed that the appointment of the pioneer ICT Directorate’s helmsman takes effect from August 14th.
According to the Katsina SSG, Ahmad’s appointment is based on the conviction that he will serve faithfully, diligently, and in the best interest of the service.
*About the new ICT Directorate Helmsman*
Naufal’s remarkable career as a tech ecosystem builder has been nothing short of extraordinary. With an unwavering passion for innovation and youth empowerment, his impact on the tech landscape of Katsina and Nigeria at large is undeniable.
As the visionary founder of the esteemed Kirkira Innovation Hub, Naufal has pioneered the establishment of the first-ever technology hub in the region. This groundbreaking initiative has served as a transformative force, equipping countless young individuals with vital technological skills and providing them with a platform to thrive.
Naufal’s commitment to nurturing talent extends far beyond skill development. Through the Kirkira Innovation Hub, he has actively fostered an entrepreneurial spirit, empowering aspiring founders to transform their ideas into successful startups.
His guidance and support have been instrumental in enabling these ambitious individuals to navigate the challenging landscape of entrepreneurship.
One of Naufal’s greatest strengths lies in his ability to forge meaningful connections between talented individuals and organizations in need of technology-related services.
By bridging this gap, he has revolutionized the tech industry in Katsina and Nigeria, creating a vibrant ecosystem where innovation flourishes and collaboration thrives.
Over the course of his illustrious eight-year career, Naufal has worked closely with governments and organizations to shape Nigeria’s technological and entrepreneurial landscape. His visionary leadership has played a pivotal role in the development of impactful policies that have laid a solid foundation for the country’s flourishing tech ecosystem.
The startups incubated at the Kirkira Innovation Hub under Naufal’s guidance have achieved phenomenal success, securing pre-seed funding through prestigious programs like Startup Nigeria and the GITEx co. Their accomplishments stand as a testament to Naufal’s exceptional mentorship and support.
Naufal’s contributions to the field of technology and entrepreneurship have not gone unnoticed. He has been a sought-after speaker and organizer at numerous conferences across Katsina and the country, sharing his insights and inspiring others to embrace innovation.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Naufal has received numerous accolades, including being named among the Opportunities Hub’s 100 Most Influential Youths for his significant contributions to youth development and entrepreneurship.
With a legacy marked by visionary leadership, transformative impact, and a genuine commitment to fostering innovation, Naufal is an inspiring figure whose career highlights continue to shape the future of technology in Nigeria.
