UK DEEPENS NIGERIA DIGITAL ECONOMY TIES WITH REFORMS AND INVESTMENT PUSH

The United Kingdom is intensifying collaboration with Nigeria to boost the country’s digital economy through targeted reforms, policy support, and investment initiatives aimed at expanding broadband infrastructure and digital inclusion.

Central to this engagement is the SPRIRET initiative (Supporting Policy Reforms for Innovation, Regulation, and Emerging Technology), delivered under the UK’s Digital Access Programme. The programme focuses on state-level policy, regulatory, and institutional reforms to accelerate digital transformation across selected Nigerian states.

The British High Commission highlighted efforts to strengthen regulatory frameworks, unlock private sector investment in broadband, and promote emerging technologies. This forms part of a broader £15 million UK-Nigeria Growth Programme designed to support economic reforms, capital market development, technology investments, and small business growth.

British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter emphasised the partnership’s goals: “The UK is proud to partner with Nigeria to drive an inclusive and innovative digital economy. Through initiatives like SPRIRET, we are supporting practical reforms that will unlock investment, strengthen institutions, and expand digital access.”

The moves align with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, addressing challenges such as limited broadband penetration while leveraging opportunities in fintech, e-services, and digital skills development. Experts view the UK support as critical for removing regulatory bottlenecks and fostering an enabling environment for tech-driven growth.

This renewed focus underscores the UK’s commitment to Nigeria as a key digital partner in Africa, aiming to stimulate inclusive economic transformation and position the country as a regional tech hub