Senate moves to pass digital economy bill before year-end

From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja

The Senate is expected to pass the proposed National Digital Economy and E-Government Bill before year-end, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to expand digital services and improve connectivity nationwide.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Afolabi Salisu, disclosed this during a panel discussion on attracting investment to Nigeria at the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja yesterday.

Salisu said the bill had reached its third reading, expressing optimism that the proposed legislation could be passed before the end of the year.

The bill seeks to establish a legal framework for digital transactions and encourage government agencies to digitise their operations, a move expected to support the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.

The proposed legislation comes amid increasing demand for reliable internet connectivity and the adoption of digital services by businesses and public institutions.

Salisu also highlighted plans for a 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network to improve connectivity nationwide, including in areas where commercial returns may be limited.

The planned network is expected to strengthen the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and extend access to reliable internet services beyond major urban centres.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, highlighted the need for increased investment in telecommunications infrastructure to meet rising data demand and support the growing use of digital technologies.

He stressed the need to expand network capacity, develop fibre-optic infrastructure and replace ageing equipment.

Adebayo also urged the government to ensure consistent policies and stronger protection for telecommunications infrastructure, particularly fibre-optic cables frequently damaged during road construction and other activities.

He said expanding reliable connectivity and developing the skills required to support emerging technologies would be critical to Nigeria’s digital growth.

According to him, “investment is needed to extend reliable connectivity beyond major urban centres and close coverage and access gaps.”