The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Trade Protocol is a pivotal milestone set to break down trade barriers and revolutionize commerce across the continent, according to Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
Inuwa, whose keynote address was delivered by Engr. Salisu Kaka, Director of Digital Economy Development, at the Nigeria AfCFTA Hackathon 2025 in Lagos, highlighted the critical role of emerging technologies in driving efficiency, inclusivity, and sustainable economic growth across the $3 trillion trade bloc.
The DG described the AfCFTA, which unites over 1.4 billion people, as one of the largest free trade zones globally. He stressed that the recently adopted Digital Trade Protocol will streamline regulations and open new markets for businesses of all sizes.
“Nigeria, with its population of over 200 million and strong entrepreneurial culture, is uniquely positioned to lead Africa’s digital transformation,” he said.
Inuwa noted that while global commerce has been reshaped by technology, many African trade systems still suffer from outdated procedures and logistical bottlenecks. However, a shift is underway, powered by innovations like blockchain, AI, IoT, and digital platforms.
- Customs Modernization: He cited the success of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in leveraging technology. The deployment of the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) led to a 238% revenue increase between 2017 and 2023. Furthermore, the successor Unified Customs Management System generated over ₦31 billion shortly after its introduction in December 2024, showcasing rapid progress in digital trade facilitation.
- Seamless Trade: “From Abuja, I can order products online, conduct due diligence, make payments, and receive deliveries—technology has made trade seamless,” Inuwa noted, emphasizing the impact of e-commerce and mobile payments.
The Hackathon, strategically held following the African Union’s 2024 endorsement of the Digital Trade Protocol, is designed to generate innovative, scalable solutions. It is structured around five priority areas: Youth and MSME Inclusion, E-Commerce Adoption, E-Commerce Policy and Trust, Digital Payments, and the E-Commerce Regulatory Sandbox.
Inuwa expressed confidence that the event would simplify payments, promote inclusion, and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership in actualizing the AfCFTA digital economy framework.
In his welcome address, Dr. Olusegun Awolowo, National Coordinator of the Nigeria AfCFTA Coordination Office (represented by Olusegun Olutayo), reaffirmed the AfCFTA’s transformative potential. He emphasized that the Hackathon is a tangible mechanism for implementing the Digital Trade Protocol, focusing on inclusion, innovation, and equitable access to accelerate Africa’s digital economy.