By Victor Akhidenor
In recent years, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has gained prominence in Nigeria as a key enabler of economic development, governance, and public service delivery. DPI includes critical systems such as digital identity, digital payments, and open data platforms that are designed to provide citizens with access to essential services and foster transparency.
As the world becomes increasingly digital, Nigeria is striving to harness the potential of DPI to address its socio-economic challenges, promote financial inclusion, and strengthen governance.
The Role of DPI in Nigeria’s Development
Digital Identity: The NIMC Initiative
A central pillar of DPI in Nigeria is the National Identification Number (NIN) programme, spearheaded by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). The NIN, a unique identifier for Nigerian citizens and legal residents, is aimed at providing a digital identity for all. This initiative has the potential to simplify access to a wide range of services, from banking to healthcare and e-governance. However, the programme has faced challenges, including slow implementation and issues around data privacy. Despite this, the NIN has already played a significant role in financial inclusion efforts by linking digital identities to mobile banking services, especially in underserved rural areas.
Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion
The country’s digital payments landscape has seen rapid expansion, supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) drive towards a cashless economy. Platforms like Remita, Quickteller, and the use of mobile money have made it easier for individuals and businesses to engage in transactions. Moreover, digital payments are essential in improving financial inclusion, particularly for those in remote areas who may not have access to traditional banking services.
Digital payment systems are crucial for social welfare programmes such as N-Power and other initiatives aimed at reducing poverty. By digitizing payments, these programmes have reduced corruption, ensuring that funds reach the intended beneficiaries more efficiently.
Open Data and Transparency Initiatives
Another key aspect of DPI in Nigeria is the government’s embrace of open data to improve transparency. Platforms like BUDESHI, an open contracting platform, and Tracka, a tool that allows citizens to monitor public projects, are examples of how digital tools are being used to hold the government accountable. These initiatives are critical for increasing transparency and reducing corruption in public procurement processes, which have historically been opaque.
Challenges Facing DPI in Nigeria
Despite these advances, Nigeria’s DPI ecosystem faces several challenges. Some of them are:
Infrastructure Gaps
A significant portion of the population still lacks access to the internet, particularly in rural areas. This limits the reach of DPI initiatives, making it difficult to achieve universal digital access.
Data Privacy Concerns
With the expansion of digital systems comes the risk of data breaches. There are ongoing concerns about how personal data is managed and protected, especially in the context of the NIN system.
Digital Literacy
While the government has made strides in DPI, many Nigerians still lack the digital literacy needed to fully utilize these systems. Bridging the digital literacy gap will be critical to ensuring that DPI is inclusive.
The Future of DPI in Nigeria
Looking forward, Nigeria has the potential to become a leader in DPI in Africa if it can address these challenges. The government’s commitment to digital transformation, as evidenced by the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (2020–2030), shows that there is a long-term vision to make digital infrastructure a cornerstone of the country’s development.
Also, Nigeria’s thriving tech ecosystem, particularly in hubs like Lagos, is well-positioned to innovate and build on existing DPI frameworks. For example, startups are creating digital solutions for identity verification, digital payments, and public service delivery, which will play a critical role in strengthening the DPI landscape.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s journey toward building robust Digital Public Infrastructure is essential for achieving sustainable development. While challenges remain, continued investment in digital identity, payment systems, and open data platforms will drive financial inclusion, improve governance, and enhance public trust. DPI is not just a tool for economic growth but also a foundation for greater civic participation and accountability in Nigeria.
By addressing gaps in digital literacy, infrastructure, and data protection, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of DPI, leading to more inclusive growth and better governance outcomes.