FG unveils blueprint for Africa’s digital trade transformation

The Federal Government of Nigeria on Friday unveiled a comprehensive strategy to spearhead Africa’s digital trade revolution, aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) framework.

The initiative is a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at leveraging trade as a driver of economic growth and continental unity in line with AfCFTA’s objectives.

“Nigeria is in a unique position to spearhead the continent’s technological transformation,” Vice President Kashim Shettima said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Shettima stated that the strategy includes implementing AfCFTA’s Digital Trade Protocol, developing technical talent hubs, enhancing digital infrastructure investments, and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.

Shettima highlighted this while delivering a keynote address during a stakeholders summit with the theme “Digital Trade in Africa: The Renewed Hope Strategy,” at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Shettima harped on the need for public-private sector synergy and assured continued government investment in digital infrastructure and human capital development.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijjani, highlighted the Tinubu administration’s substantial investments in all aspects of the digital trade protocol, aiming to harness opportunities both in Nigeria and across the continent.

Tijani explained that the innovative policies and programmes, such as the 3 Million Technical Talent programme, the data protection policy, and increased investments in digital infrastructure, were equipping Nigeria’s young population for current and future opportunities.

The minister also highlighted the critical role of technology in facilitating trade across Africa, stressing that the unprecedented opportunities within the single market area could be best leveraged through effective collaboration and networking enabled by digital technology.