The Federal Government of Nigeria has listed benefits of National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill , while urging relevant stakeholders to make the bill a reality.
This was made known on Wednesday December 11 in Uyo during Akwa Ibom State National Digital Economy and E-Governance stakeholders engagement by the consultant, Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA) on behalf of the federal government.
Christiana Ossai, Consultant Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe while addressing the stakeholders, explained the bill provides definitive legal recognition for digital transactions and e-signatures, thereby enhancing public trust and secure digital interactions.
Ossai noted that the bill, when pass into law, will promote infrastructure and digital literacy programs to make digital services accessible across Nigeria, including underserved regions.
“The Bill aims to position Nigeria as a digital economy leader in Africa by fostering a secure, inclusive digital environment. It prioritizes streamlined and transparent digital governance, reducing bureaucracy and facilitating citizen engagement.
“By securing digital transactions and protecting consumer data, the Bill encourages digital innovation, enterprise, and investment in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
“It also emphasizes digital inclusion for all Nigerians, ensuring that infrastructure reaches underserved regions to bridge the digital divide.”
She revealed that despite advances in technology, Nigeria’s digital economy faces critical challenges, including: fragmented digital infrastructure; Limited digital literacy and digital divide; insufficient cybersecurity measures; data privacy vulnerabilities and low public trust in e- services.
The consultant averred that the bill establishes regulatory foundation to encourage digital commerce, cross-border trade, and innovation, positioning Nigeria as a major player in Africa’s digital landscape, and appealed to stakeholders to rally support for the bill to become a reality.
Earlier in his welcome speech, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner, Ministry of Science and Technology-Prof. Imo Moffat, commended the consultant and urged stakeholders in the state to make critical review of the bill in order to add value to it.
The Commissioner commended pastor Umo Eno for being symbol of peace for the development of Akwa Ibom State, adding that the ministry will do all it can to achieve its goals.
The stakeholders engagement also featured a breakout session.
