In a decisive move towards embracing the digital era, Nigeria has embarked on a groundbreaking journey of transformation with the introduction of its National Blockchain Policy.
According to the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof Isa Pantami, the policy sets the stage for a technology-driven future in the country.
Underlining the government’s commitment to this digital revolution, Prof Isa Pantami recently inaugurated the National Committee responsible for implementing the National Blockchain Policy. The committee comprises representatives from 29 institutions across both the public and private sectors, including academia. This diverse membership ensures a comprehensive approach to driving the adoption of blockchain technology across Nigeria.
The significance of this development was highlighted during a ceremony held in Abuja, where an impressive 32,022 Nigerians were honored for their successful completion of the Federal Government’s Blockchain Technology training program. This training initiative, organized to equip individuals with the necessary skills to support the policy’s implementation, marks a crucial step in building a workforce ready to harness the potential of blockchain technology.
The endorsement and support for the National Blockchain Policy came from none other than President Muhammadu Buhari himself, who, on May 3, approved the policy and issued directives to key regulatory bodies. The National Information Technology Development Agency, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the National Universities Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Nigerian Communications Commission were tasked with developing regulatory instruments to facilitate the seamless integration of blockchain technology into various sectors of the economy.
The National Blockchain Policy serves as a roadmap for Nigeria’s adoption and utilization of emerging technologies. It aligns with the seventh pillar of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, which focuses on creating a “Digital Society & Emerging Technologies.” Prof Isa Pantami explained that the policy forms an integral part of Nigeria’s broader digital transformation efforts, alongside policies on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. These initiatives have already led to the establishment of the continent’s first-ever National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), located in Abuja.
Emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in driving Nigeria’s digital economy, Prof Isa Pantami highlighted the significance of the fourth industrial revolution. This revolution has ushered in disruptive technologies such as Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cloud & Quantum Computing, Virtual & Augmented Reality, Autonomous Vehicles, Biotechnology, 5G, and Cybersecurity. Nigeria, proudly standing among at least three African nations actively involved in the fourth industrial revolution, is poised to leverage these advancements to bolster its economic growth and development.
The successful implementation of the National Blockchain Policy will have far-reaching benefits for Nigeria. It will provide a comprehensive framework for integrating blockchain technology into various sectors, nurturing indigenous talent, and creating a globally competitive ecosystem.
Furthermore, it will address critical issues of governance, security, interoperability, regulatory compliance, accountability, and transparency.
The policy’s effective execution is expected to foster innovation, improve government services, generate job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, instill public trust in governance, and promote citizen engagement.
