Nigeria has officially unveiled the results of its inaugural National Digital Trade Survey and Mapping Exercise, marking a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to fostering a competitive and inclusive digital economy.
The findings were presented on the sidelines of the inaugural AfCFTA Digital Trade Forum, hosted by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat in Lusaka, Zambia.
As a co-champion of Digital Trade under the AfCFTA, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in shaping Africa’s digital future under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The survey results culminated in the launch of Africa’s first-ever Digital Services Directory, a pioneering resource that offers detailed insights into Nigeria’s rapidly growing digital economy and its potential for continental expansion.
Speaking at the event, Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, noted that the survey represents a bold step toward policy-driven innovation in digital trade.
“I am proud to unveil the findings from Nigeria’s first-of-its-kind digital mapping effort. This snapshot of 17 dynamic sectors provides deep insights into our digital economy and the bold ambitions of its trailblazers,” Oduwole stated.
She added that the national survey not only highlights the vibrancy of Nigeria’s digital service providers but also lays the groundwork for strategic policy formulation and trade expansion under the AfCFTA framework.
“We set out to identify Nigeria’s digital service providers, pinpoint priority African markets, inform national policy, and shape Nigeria’s leadership in implementing the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade,” she said.
The initiative follows the Minister’s earlier call in April for submissions and stakeholder engagement to ensure broad participation in the digital trade mapping process.
With the unveiling of the survey results, Nigeria aims to accelerate its digital trade agenda and serve as a model for other African nations looking to harness the full potential of the continental digital economy.
