Nigeria is positioned to establish a new standard for digital advancement across Africa as President Bola Tinubu prepares to enact the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill 2025 into law this week.
Historic Legislation for Digital Transformation
The groundbreaking legislation, developed collaboratively by both the Senate and House of Representatives, is designed to fundamentally transform how the nation governs, regulates, and engages with the digital economy. The announcement emerged during a significant public hearing organized by the Senate and House Joint Committees on ICT and Cybersecurity, where legislators, regulators, and industry stakeholders convened to discuss this pivotal Bill.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, confirmed that President Tinubu is expected to approve the Bill this week, describing it as a crucial driver for achieving Nigeria's ambitious $1 trillion economy target.
Economic Impact and Infrastructure Development
According to Minister Tijani, Nigeria's digital economy has demonstrated remarkable growth, increasing its contribution to GDP from 16 percent to the current 19 percent, with a clear objective of reaching 21 percent by 2027. The new legislation is anticipated to unleash private-sector capabilities, draw substantial investment, and promote comprehensive digital inclusion nationwide.
"We are not pursuing temporary solutions," Tijani emphasized. "We are investing in profound structural foundations: 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic networks, approximately 4,000 new communication towers, a national data exchange system, and a structured framework for artificial intelligence adoption. This represents our method for constructing tomorrow's economy."
Comprehensive Digital Framework and Leadership
Lawmakers have characterized the Bill as unprecedented in Africa, providing regulatory certainty for electronic transactions, requiring digitization of government services, and establishing the fundamental infrastructure for the country's e-governance system.
Hon. Adedeji Olajide, Chairman of the House ICT Committee, stated that "this legislation will digitally transform Nigeria and establish our nation as Africa's frontrunner in e-governance and technology."
Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, Chairman of the Senate ICT Committee, highlighted the law's strategic importance: "It guarantees smooth digital interactions between government agencies and the private sector, releasing efficiency, transparency, and accountability throughout the system."
The Bill has received overwhelming support from key stakeholders including the NCC, NICOMSAT, NIPOST, Galaxy Backbone, and the Office of the Head of Service, demonstrating widespread consensus behind its implementation.
By creating a contemporary regulatory structure, encouraging nationwide connectivity, and generating opportunities for AI integration and digital innovation, the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Act is set to redefine Africa's technological environment.
"The generation that opened telecommunications in 1999 planted the initial seeds," Tijani reflected. "Now, we take the subsequent courageous step—harnessing technology to expand our economy, empower our citizens, and guide Africa into the future."
Once signed into law, the legislation will not only solidify Nigeria's leadership position in Africa's digital economy but also function as a model for other nations aiming to leverage technology for economic growth, innovation, and improved governance.
