Nigeria targets creation of 10 million jobs through AfCFTA digital trade

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima

|Published 11:00 AM ET, Thursday February, 2025|

Abuja: Nigeria has been officially designated as Africa’s Digital Trade Champion, a strategic role aimed at fostering the creation of over 10 million new jobs across the continent by the end of 2025. This initiative is part of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Trade Protocol, which aspires to elevate intra-African trade from 18% in 2022 to 50% by 2030.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, emphasized Nigeria’s advancements in digital commerce, services, and innovation during the AfCFTA Digital Trade Workshop and Global Market held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. He highlighted that Nigeria’s innovations in mobile payments have revolutionized cross-border transactions, financial inclusion, and digital dealings throughout the continent.

The AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol is designed to significantly boost intra-African trade, with Nigeria poised to lead this transformation. The country’s digital economy is bolstered by over 109 million internet users and a dynamic mobile market. Projections indicate that Africa’s internet economy will contribute 5.2% to the continent’s GDP this year, with the digital economy’s value expected to rise from $115 billion in 2020 to $180 billion.

To capitalize on these opportunities, Nigeria has launched several initiatives:

National Talent Export Programme: Initiated in September 2023, this program aims to promote Nigerian talent on a global scale.

Outsource to Nigeria Initiative: Supported by the Office of the Vice President, this initiative seeks to enhance the country’s outsourcing industry.

3 Million Technology Talents Programme: Managed by the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy, this program focuses on developing tech skills among Nigerians.

Additionally, Nigeria has modernized its passport application system and invested in port infrastructure to streamline trade processes, reduce customs processing times, and strengthen its capacity to manage a significant portion of West Africa’s cargo.

The AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol encompasses various key areas, including rules of origin, digital identities, cross-border data transfers, online safety and security, and financial technology. These components are essential for creating a conducive environment for digital commerce and innovation across Africa.

As Africa’s Digital Trade Champion, Nigeria is committed to accelerating the implementation of the AfCFTA Digital Protocol, aiming to transform the continent’s economic landscape through digital trade and job creation.