Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Raises Alarming Concern Over Nigeria’s Low Internet Penetration, Says It’s Harmful to Digital Trade Growth

Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has expressed concern that Nigeria’s limited internet penetration may restrict its participation in the rapidly expanding global digital trade market.

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Speaking on Thursday at the launch of the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund in Abuja, Ngozi Okonjo noted that only 45% of Nigerians have internet access well below the global average of 67%.

“No nation can truly digitize without a steady supply of electricity and reliable, affordable internet. More than half of Nigerians remain disconnected, and this gap must be closed if we are to seize the opportunities of digital trade.

“Nigeria is one of four countries chosen for the WEIDE Fund’s 2024 rollout, alongside Jordan, Mongolia, and the Dominican Republic, after a highly competitive selection process.

“The Nigerian Export Promotion Council, NEPC, led by Executive Director Nonye Ayeni, will implement the program locally,” Ngozi Okonjo said.

The WTO boss emphasised that digital trade, valued globally at US$4.25 trillion, is the fastest-growing segment of commerce, yet Africa’s share remains below 1 percent.

The former Nigeria’s Minister of Finance urged inter-ministerial collaboration among the Ministries of Communications, Industry, and Power to close the connectivity gap, improve infrastructure, and empower women to compete globally.