Tijani says FG Targets N18.3Bn Digital Economy by 2026 with new e-Governance Bill

Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications and Digital Economy, has said that the digital economy sector is projected to generate up to N18.3 billion by 2026 with the proposed Nigerian Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill.

Tijani who disclosed this at a media briefing in Abuja, canvassed support for the national bill, noting that the bill, once enacted, would establish a legal framework to expedite advancements in the digital economy agenda.

Describing the digital economy sector as the “backbone of modern economies, the minister also tagged it a crucial element for any nation’s prosperity.

Tijani mentioned the success of Nigerian unicorn companies like Flutterwave, Jumia, Andela, and Interswitch as evidence of the potential of digital economy to significantly elevate the country.

The minister also emphasized some of the importance of the bill to include, fostering job creation within the tech sector, addressing current deficits, and providing a regulatory framework to spur growth and innovation.

On his part, Kashifu Inuwa, director-general, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), harped on the bill’s role in enhancing digital economy utilization across government and private sectors.

DG NITDA, who was represented by Emmanuel Elder, an acting director in the Agency, stressed on the bill’s comprehensive nature, spanning 16 parts and over 60 sections, aimed at bolstering digital transactions, consumer protection, and promoting technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence and blockchains.

The DG NITDA stated further that the bill aims to facilitate the achievement of Nigeria’s goals, particularly under the current government.

The heads  of committees in the Senate and House of Representatives respectively  promised legislative support for the bill’s adoption and implementation.