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On Friday, the Federal Government of Nigeria unveiled a comprehensive strategy to lead Africa’s digital trade transformation, aligning with the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
This initiative is a pivotal part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to harness trade as a catalyst for economic growth and continental unity in line with AfCFTA’s goals.
“Nigeria is uniquely positioned to drive the continent’s technological transformation,” stated Vice President Kashim Shettima in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Shettima highlighted that the strategy includes implementing AfCFTA’s Digital Trade Protocol, establishing technical talent hubs, boosting digital infrastructure investments, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. He delivered these remarks during a keynote address at the stakeholders summit themed “Digital Trade in Africa: The Renewed Hope Strategy,” held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Emphasizing the importance of public-private sector collaboration, Shettima assured that the government would continue investing in digital infrastructure and human capital development.
Bosun Tijjani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, underscored the Tinubu administration’s significant investments in various aspects of the digital trade protocol. He detailed initiatives such as the 3 Million Technical Talent programme, the data protection policy, and increased digital infrastructure investments, all aimed at preparing Nigeria’s young population for future opportunities.
Tijjani stressed the vital role of technology in facilitating trade across Africa, noting that the single market area offers unprecedented opportunities that can be best leveraged through effective collaboration and networking enabled by digital technology.
This strategic blueprint sets the stage for Nigeria to lead the continent in digital trade, promoting economic growth and unity through technological advancement.
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