By IDNN Business & Economy Desk
The Federal Government says Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product could rise by 21 per cent by 2030 if the proposed National Digital and E-Governance Bill is enacted.
Speaking in Abuja, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani said the legislation would anchor Nigeria’s digital transformation in law, enhance service delivery, and stIDNN – Breaking Boundaries…Building Knowledge!rengthen public trust in digital trade and secure transactions.
“Today marks a defining moment in our collective efforts to shape a resilient, inclusive, and future-proof digital economy,” Tijani said.
The bill, drafted after nationwide consultations across all 36 states, seeks to promote interoperability among ministries, strengthen digital identity, and accelerate the transition of government records from paper to electronic platforms.
Tijani revealed that Nigeria’s digital economy already contributed ₦7 trillion to real GDP in Q1 2025, accounting for 14.19 per cent of the total. Current contributions range from 16–18 per cent, with plans to reach 21 per cent by 2030.
The bill also aligns with the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, ensuring stronger privacy safeguards and inclusivity in governance.
At the same event, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) unveiled a framework for responsible adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across governance, healthcare, education, and agriculture.
NITDA Director General Kashifu Abdullahi said AI must be harnessed to create jobs, not replace them:
“Nigeria’s youth are our strongest asset. We must ensure they are innovators, not just consumers of technology.”
A new report titled AI in the Workplace 2025 warned of uneven adoption, with 63 per cent of employers citing productivity gains but many workplaces lagging. Abdullahi said Nigeria must bridge the “productivity divide” by equipping its young population with AI skills.
Analysts note that the twin push — embedding e-governance in law and advancing AI adoption — marks a bold attempt to reposition Nigeria in the digital global economy.
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