On December 4, 2024, the Managing Director/CEO of Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC), Mr. Gbande-Hembaor Terwase, proudly coordinated a pivotal Stakeholders’ Engagement on the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill. Organized by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Benue State Government, and the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development Project, the event underscored the collective commitment to fostering a progressive and inclusive digital economy for Nigeria.

Held at the Precious Event Center in Makurdi, the engagement served as a dynamic platform for cross-sectoral dialogue and collaboration, bringing together a diverse assembly of experts and stakeholders to chart the path forward for the nation’s digital transformation.

A Convergence of Minds and Expertise

The event was graced by a wide range of participants, representing various sectors critical to Nigeria’s digital future. These included:

• Members of the Benue State House of Assembly and State Executive Council.
• Senior government officials and public administrators.
• Academics and researchers from renowned institutions.
• Civil society organizations and advocates for digital inclusion.
• Legal practitioners with expertise in technology law and policy.
• Technology experts, developers, and representatives of the Nigeria Computer Society.
• Financial sector stakeholders, including fintech leaders and banking professionals.

This broad representation ensured that the discussions were both comprehensive and inclusive, reflecting the diverse perspectives needed to shape a robust and effective digital governance framework.

Key Focus Areas of the Engagement

1. Reviewing the Proposed Bill

Central to the discussions was the detailed review of the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill. Participants analyzed its provisions, assessed its alignment with global best practices, and offered constructive feedback to ensure the bill meets the unique needs of Nigeria’s digital landscape.

2. Enhancing Legislative Frameworks for Digital Transformation

The engagement emphasized the critical role of legislation in driving innovation, fostering accountability, and enabling sustainable growth in the digital economy. Stakeholders deliberated on the following key themes:

• Innovation: Creating policies that encourage technological advancements and entrepreneurship.
• Governance: Leveraging digital tools to improve transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement.
• Development: Ensuring equitable access to digital resources, fostering inclusion, and addressing the digital divide.

3. Strengthening Collaboration Among Stakeholders

Participants acknowledged that the success of the digital economy and e-governance initiatives depends on strong collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, academia, and civil society. The event served as a catalyst for building these vital partnerships.

Why This Engagement Matters

The National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards becoming a digitally-driven nation. It aims to establish a legal framework that:

• Supports the growth of the digital economy.
• Promotes the adoption of e-governance practices.
• Safeguards data privacy and cybersecurity.
• Encourages innovation and investment in technology.

By facilitating this engagement, BDIC and its partners demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that the bill reflects the aspirations and needs of all Nigerians.

A Vision for a Digitally Empowered Nigeria

Speaking on the significance of the engagement, Mr. Gbande-Hembaor Terwase reiterated BDIC’s dedication to advancing the digital transformation agenda. He highlighted the importance of creating policies and systems that not only drive economic growth but also empower citizens and enhance governance.

The event marked a pivotal step in fostering a culture of inclusivity and accountability in Nigeria’s digital space, with Benue State taking the lead as a hub for innovation and collaboration.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for Progress

The Stakeholders’ Engagement on the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill showcased the power of collaboration in shaping a future-ready Nigeria. It underscored the importance of having a comprehensive legislative framework to support the rapid evolution of technology and its integration into governance and everyday life.

BDIC remains committed to driving initiatives that position Benue State—and Nigeria as a whole—at the forefront of digital transformation. Together, we can create a nation where technology serves as a catalyst for progress, inclusion, and sustainable development.