The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to pass the much-anticipated Digital Economy Bill by the second quarter of 2025. This landmark legislation aims to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure and accelerate economic growth, positioning Nigeria as a leader in technology innovation and digital services in Africa.
The bill, currently under review, is designed to establish a comprehensive legal framework for Nigeria’s burgeoning digital economy. It will focus on key areas such as infrastructure development, talent cultivation, e-governance, and regulatory transparency.
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, emphasized the bill’s transformative potential during an interview on Arise TV. “The Digital Economy Bill will be pivotal in advancing Nigeria’s digital ambitions,” he said, highlighting its role in supporting the government’s goal of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
Among its key provisions are infrastructure development to enhance connectivity, talent cultivation to promote digital skills, transparent regulatory frameworks to attract investments, and e-governance improvements to encourage public participation.
The government has taken a grassroots approach to ensure inclusivity, soliciting feedback from citizens in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. According to Tijani, this marks the first time a bill of this nature has engaged the entire country in its development. “We expect to complete our engagement process by the end of February 2025,” Tijani said. “After that, the bill will move to the National Assembly for final deliberations, with the goal of passage by Q2.”
The bill has garnered backing from key members of the National Assembly, including Senator Shuaib Salisu, Chair of the Senate Committee on ICT & Cybersecurity, and Adedeji Olajide, Chair of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity. Both have worked closely with the Ministry to ensure the bill aligns with Nigeria’s national priorities and fosters an inclusive digital ecosystem.
The Digital Economy Bill is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s broader digital transformation strategy. By creating a robust legal framework, the government aims to attract investments, boost innovation, and enable Nigeria to compete on a global scale. As the legislative process progresses, stakeholders from various sectors are closely monitoring developments, viewing the bill as a critical step toward realizing Nigeria’s digital potential and achieving its long-term economic goals.
