The National Assembly has commenced a public hearing on the proposed National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, 2025, aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
The session, organized by the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on ICT, Cybersecurity, and Digital Economy, seeks input from stakeholders to shape a robust legal framework for the nation’s digital growth.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, described the bill as a vital step toward building a sustainable digital future. He said the proposed legislation would create an enabling environment for innovation, attract investment, and expand the digital sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“A strong legal framework is critical to unlocking the sector’s full potential and driving inclusive growth,” Tijani stated.
The bill proposes reforms in several key areas, including ethical governance of artificial intelligence, improved digital public services, data protection, cybersecurity, and measures to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. It also seeks to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to adapt to emerging digital trends.
Stakeholders from the technology industry, civil society, and the private sector lauded the initiative but cautioned against excessive regulation that could stifle innovation or burden startups.
In response, members of the joint committee assured participants that all submissions would be carefully reviewed to ensure a balanced and forward-looking law capable of positioning Nigeria as a leading digital economy in Africa.
The public hearing is ongoing, with final recommendations expected before the bill is presented for consideration at plenary.
