Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS 2020–2030) sets out an ambitious vision to transform the country into a leading player in the global digital economy. The policy recognises that technology now sits at the heart of economic growth, social inclusion, and good governance. By expanding broadband infrastructure, enhancing digital literacy, improving cybersecurity, and encouraging local innovation, the strategy seeks to create a vibrant ecosystem where citizens, businesses, and government can thrive.
However, as promising as the framework appears, its implementation raises critical questions. A closer look at the policy suggests that while its objectives are broad and well-intentioned, its approach to solving Nigeria’s digital challenges needs to evolve. It places significant emphasis on building infrastructure, harmonising regulations, and rolling out digital platforms, yet it pays less attention to deeper barriers that influence adoption and participation. To truly unlock Nigeria’s digital potential, the strategy must go beyond setting targets and ensure that its goals translate into measurable improvements in the lives of citizens.
Rethinking the Real Challenges
The policy frames Nigeria’s digital gap largely in terms of limited connectivity, outdated regulations, and inadequate skills. While these issues are undeniably important, they represent only part of the problem. The assumption that once broadband is widely available and regulatory frameworks are aligned, citizens and businesses will automatically embrace digital tools overlooks critical factors that shape digital inclusion.
For instance, although the policy sets ambitious broadband targets, it focuses primarily on supply—laying fibre cables, expanding mobile coverage, and building data centres—without giving equal attention to affordability. Millions of Nigerians live in areas where connectivity is technically available but cannot afford the cost of data, devices, or reliable electricity to power them. Without addressing these structural inequalities, expanding infrastructure risks reinforcing digital divides rather than closing them.
Similarly, while the strategy includes plans for digital literacy programs, it does not fully explore how these skills will translate into sustainable livelihoods. In a rapidly evolving technology landscape, teaching basic digital skills is insufficient without equipping people to participate meaningfully in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and e-commerce.
Trust also remains an underexplored challenge. The policy rightly highlights cybersecurity and data protection as priorities but does not go far enough in addressing citizen concerns about privacy and surveillance. As Nigeria accelerates the rollout of digital identity systems and integrates services across platforms, people need assurances that their personal data will be handled responsibly and transparently. Without building stronger safeguards and independent oversight, adoption of digital services may remain limited due to fears over misuse of information.
Where the Policy Shines
Despite these gaps, the NDEPS represents a bold and forward-looking step for Nigeria’s digital transformation. One of its strengths lies in its recognition of the need to streamline regulations and reduce barriers for technology-driven businesses. By encouraging harmonisation across agencies and tackling issues such as multiple taxation, the policy aims to create a more predictable environment that fosters innovation and investment.
The strategy also introduces plans to modernise government service delivery by expanding digital platforms. Initiatives such as paperless workflows, centralised portals, and integrated payment systems could significantly improve transparency and efficiency if executed effectively. For citizens, these platforms promise faster access to essential services, from registering businesses to paying taxes and obtaining identity credentials.
Another standout feature of the policy is its focus on supporting indigenous content and local innovation. By prioritising Nigerian technology firms and startups in public procurement, the strategy seeks to stimulate homegrown solutions and retain value within the local economy. If managed transparently and tied to quality benchmarks, this approach could help position Nigeria as a hub for competitive digital products and services across Africa.
Furthermore, the policy aligns digital transformation with broader development goals such as poverty reduction, financial inclusion, and improved governance. By linking digital investments to social impact, it creates a framework where technology is not simply an end in itself but a driver of national well-being.
Turning Vision into Measurable Progress
For the NDEPS to succeed, Nigeria must move from setting high-level ambitions to focusing on measurable outcomes. The strategy should define success not only by the amount of infrastructure built or regulations passed but by the real benefits experienced by citizens and businesses. This shift requires clearer priorities, better coordination, and stronger accountability.
Affordability must be placed at the centre of the digital transformation agenda. Subsidies for underserved communities, financing schemes for devices, and policies that encourage lower data costs could make access more equitable. Equally important is strengthening public trust in digital systems by establishing independent oversight for digital identity platforms and enforcing stricter data privacy protections.
Supporting local innovation should go beyond preferential policies by tying incentives to performance benchmarks, ensuring that Nigerian firms are globally competitive and export-ready. Progress also needs to be tracked through transparent, measurable targets. For instance, monitoring the percentage of government services available online, the share of digital payments among citizens, or the contribution of local firms to public procurement would provide clearer evidence of impact.
Leave a Reply