Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has revealed that the Federal Government is advancing strategic efforts to drive the National Digital Economy Bill, currently before the National Assembly.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement on Thursday in Abuja, Tijani represented by Rafiu Adeladan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry said the bill is central to Nigeria’s digital transformation and prosperity. He emphasized that the country currently lacks a comprehensive legal framework for electronic transactions and e-commerce, which has hindered effective tracking of government revenues through digital platforms.
According to Tijani, the proposed legislation will provide a strong foundation for digital governance, covering crucial areas such as authentication, revocation, auditing, and electronic transactions. He added that these reforms are expected to expand access to financial services, create jobs, and enhance national development.
“The ICT/digital economy sector contributed about seven billion naira to Nigeria’s real GDP in the first quarter of 2025, representing 14 percent of the total GDP during the review period. With proper strategies, this bill will help increase sectoral contributions to between 16 and 18 percent, and ultimately raise this figure to 25 percent by 2030,” Tijani said.
He described data as the “new oil” for Nigeria’s economy, noting that with the right policies, the sector can serve as a reliable driver of sustainable growth and digital prosperity.
The minister also stressed the importance of stakeholder participation in shaping the content of the bill, explaining that perspectives from government agencies, private sector operators, development partners, civil society, and the legal community will ensure the final framework reflects the aspirations of all Nigerians.
Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), also spoke at the event, reaffirming government’s commitment to maximizing the benefits of Nigeria’s digital economy. He stated that the proposed law would not only address immediate challenges but also prepare the country for emerging developments in global technology and e-commerce.
The National Digital Economy Bill, once passed into law, is expected to strengthen revenue collection, improve digital security, and create new opportunities for businesses and individuals operating in Nigeria’s expanding ICT sector.
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