Naufal Ahmad: Driving Katsina’s Digital Revolution, Northern Youths’ Tech Future

Naufal Ahmad is a standout in Northern Nigeria’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. Over the years, he has remained one of the region’s most influential advocates for digital innovation, youth empowerment and technology-driven governance.

He deploys his entrepreneurial skills and experience in the public service to equip young people with the digital skills to thrive in a technology-driven economy.

His journey into technology leadership is anchored in a solid academic foundation. Ahmad earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography and Environmental Sciences from Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina. He later pursued postgraduate studies, earning a Master of Science in Natural Resources Management and qualifications in International Relations and Diplomacy. His multidisciplinary education has enabled him to blend environmental knowledge, public policy and innovation to advance digital transformation.

Before transiting to public office, Ahmad had established himself as one of Northern Nigeria’s leading technology ecosystem builders. He co-founded Kirkira Innovation Hub, the first innovation and technology hub in Katsina State, to create opportunities for young innovators, entrepreneurs and software developers.

At a time when technology support systems in the region were still emerging, the hub became a platform for nurturing ideas, building startups and developing digital talent.

Under his leadership, Kirkira Innovation Hub has trained thousands of young people in software development, digital entrepreneurship, innovation and other ICT-related skills. Many beneficiaries have gone on to establish startups, secure employment in Nigeria’s growing technology industry and participate in national and international innovation competitions. The hub has also collaborated with government agencies, development partners and private organisations to expand digital opportunities for youths across Northern Nigeria.

Ahmad’s commitment to technology and youth development earned him national recognition and paved the way for his appointment as the pioneer director-general (DG) of the Katsina State Directorate of Information and Communication Technology (KATDICT) in 2023 by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda. The appointment placed him at the centre of Katsina State’s digital transformation agenda.

As DG of KATDICT, Ahmad is responsible for driving policies and initiatives to modernise government services through technology, strengthen digital infrastructure, and create an enabling environment for innovation. His vision extends beyond deploying technology; he seeks to build an inclusive digital economy where young people, entrepreneurs and businesses can leverage innovation to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Recognising the importance of digital skills in today’s economy, Ahmad has consistently championed programmes that encourage coding, software development, digital entrepreneurship and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. He believes Northern Nigeria possesses enormous untapped talent that can compete globally when provided with the right training, mentorship and opportunities.

His growing influence in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem was further acknowledged when he was appointed Katsina State Focal Person for the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme. The initiative is designed to support startups and creative enterprises through financing, incubation, business development and capacity building, helping position innovation as a key driver of economic development.

Ahmad also advocates stronger collaboration among government, academia, the private sector and development partners to accelerate digital inclusion and expand access to technology across underserved communities. His work reflects the conviction that technology should not be confined to urban centres but should serve as a catalyst for inclusive development throughout Northern Nigeria.

Industry stakeholders describe him as a forward-thinking leader who combines strategic vision with practical execution. Rather than viewing innovation solely as a private-sector responsibility, he has demonstrated how government can create the policies and institutions that enable technology ecosystems to flourish.

For many aspiring entrepreneurs and technology enthusiasts, Ahmad represents a new generation of Nigerian leadership—one that recognises that the future of economic prosperity lies in innovation, digital knowledge and human capital. His work continues to inspire a growing community of young people determined to use technology to solve problems, create opportunities and shape a more prosperous future for Northern Nigeria.