Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that Nigeria’s digital economy represents the country’s “second chance” at global relevance, calling it a major lever for sustainable growth, inclusion, and innovation. He made the remarks at the opening of the Digital Nigeria International Conference & Exhibition (DNICE 2025) in Abuja.
Bold Reforms, Renewed Confidence
Shettima said that the current administration’s reforms are already paying off. He argued that the era of volatile and unstable economic regimes is over, noting improved investor confidence and macroeconomic stability.
He cited recent upgrades from global rating agencies — with Fitch assigning a stable outlook and Moody’s raising the issuer rating — as proof that Nigeria’s steadier economic course is being acknowledged internationally.
A Digital Vision Rooted in Three Pillars
According to the Vice President, Nigeria’s digital transformation strategy rests on three main pillars:
- People — Through initiatives such as the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, the government is building a robust pipeline of tech-savvy youth.
- Infrastructure — The administration plans to expand broadband access and deploy additional telecommunications towers across underserved regions.
- Policy — Key regulatory frameworks — including the National Digital Economy & E-Governance Bill — are being shaped to support innovation and data-driven governance.
Deep-Tech Over Apps
Shettima emphasized that the government’s ambitions go beyond simple apps. He wants Nigeria to develop deep-tech solutions that address fundamental challenges in agriculture, health, governance, and logistics.
He painted a picture of inclusivity: “We need a digital ecosystem that works as seamlessly in Lagos as it does in Abuja … where a farmer in Bida can access real-time market data … and a young woman in Oguta can work remotely for a global company …”
Digital Innovation as Economic Diversification
The Vice President described digital innovation as the strongest tool for diversifying Nigeria’s economy. He praised the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and NITDA (National Information Technology Development Agency) for driving this vision forward.
NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, also spoke at the conference, highlighting Nigeria’s youthful demographics as a major asset. With an average age of 18, the population represents not just a challenge, but a massive potential for value creation.
Building for All Nigerians
Shettima said the digital revolution must benefit everyone — from small traders to multinational corporations. He urged the private sector to partner with government to co-create solutions.
He called for an inclusive digital transformation that ensures “macroeconomic gains trickle down … from the kiosks of our neighbourhood traders to the boardrooms of our multinational corporations.”
What’s Next
- The National Digital Economy & E-Governance Bill is poised to unlock a new era of government-technology collaboration.
- Investments are underway in broadband and telecommunication tower rollout; policymakers aim to deliver high-speed connectivity nationwide.
- Talent development remains a top priority, with government-led programs to upskill millions of young Nigerians in technical fields.
Why This Matters:
- For Nigeria to lead in Africa’s digital economy, scaling infrastructure and talent is essential.
- Digital transformation offers a pathway to address core national challenges and reduce dependency on volatile sectors.
- A stable, innovation-driven economy can generate jobs, boost exports, and attract global investment.
