Nigeria unveils strategy to lead Africa’s digital trade charge

Nigeria on Friday took a bold step towards becoming the digital trade leader of Africa.
This is as the Federal Government launched a comprehensive strategy aligned with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) framework. This initiative aims to spearhead a digital trade revolution across the continent.
The strategy, unveiled by Vice President Kashim Shettima, is a key component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” This agenda emphasizes trade as a catalyst for economic growth and continental unity, reflecting the goals of the AfCFTA.
He stated 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.
“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 highlighted Nigeria’s unique position to lead this transformation. The specifics of the strategy include:
• Implementing the AfCFTA’s Digital Trade Protocol: This protocol aims to eliminate barriers to digital trade within Africa, such as electronic customs procedures and harmonized digital regulations.
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• Developing Technical Talent Hubs: Building a strong workforce with the skills needed for the digital economy is crucial. These hubs will likely focus on areas like software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
• Enhancing Digital Infrastructure Investments: This includes improving internet access, expanding broadband coverage, and investing in data centers. Robust infrastructure is essential for facilitating a thriving digital trade ecosystem.
• Promoting Disruptive Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Encouraging creativity and fostering a supportive environment for startups will be vital in driving digital trade growth.
The success of this strategy hinges on strong public-private sector collaboration. Shettima emphasized the need for synergy between these groups, particularly in implementing the AfCFTA’s Digital Trade Protocol.
This move by Nigeria is a significant development for Africa’s digital future. Whether Nigeria can truly become the digital trade leader of the continent will depend on the effective implementation of this strategy and its ability to foster a vibrant digital trade environment across Africa.
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