AfCFTA: FG launches plan to drive Africa’s digital trade revolution

The Federal Government has introduced an extensive strategy aimed at spearheading Africa’s digital trade revolution within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

Vice-President Kashim Shettima outlined the strategy in a keynote speech at a Stakeholders Summit held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday.

He described the roadmap as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The plan aims to leverage trade as a driver of economic growth and continental unity, aligning with AfCFTA’s goals.

Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s unique position to lead the continent’s technological evolution.

“We are well-positioned as Africa’s largest ICT hub, and we must guide the continent through this wave of industrial revolution,” he stated.

He noted the importance of aligning policy initiatives with those of developed nations to accelerate growth.

Key components of the strategy include implementing AfCFTA’s Digital Trade Protocol and developing extensive technical talent hubs. The plan also focuses on boosting investments in digital infrastructure, fostering disruptive innovation, and encouraging entrepreneurship.

Shettima revealed the need for strong public-private sector collaboration to effectively implement the Digital Trade Protocol and pledged the Federal Government’s commitment to investing in digital infrastructure and human capital development.

“Digital technologies are crucial for the survival of all sectors, and we must keep advancing,” he said.

He noted various government programs, including the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) and initiatives to train three million technical talents.

Dr. Bosun Tijjani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, noted that the Tinubu administration is making significant investments in digital trade to seize opportunities both domestically and continent-wide. He emphasized that the single market area offers unprecedented opportunities that can be best harnessed through digital technology.

Dr. Salihu Nakande, Special Assistant to the President on ICT Policy, expressed gratitude to Tinubu and Shettima for their commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he believes has laid a strong foundation for digital transformation in Nigeria.

Mr. Kris Kamponi, Head of Prosperity at the British Deputy High Commission, praised the Digital Trade in Africa initiative as crucial for addressing prosperity issues on the continent, noting its positive impact on the UK economy.