Nigeria launches regulatory framework to accelerate digital innovation

Nigeria has taken a major step towards fostering innovation by launching a Technical Working Group to oversee the implementation of the National Regulatory Sandbox, a framework designed to improve coordination among regulators and support the development of emerging technologies.

The initiative, introduced by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), seeks to provide a controlled environment in which innovators can test new products, services, and business models under regulatory supervision before obtaining full approvals, reports News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a partner of TV BRICS.

Speaking at the inauguration of the working group, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi said technological advancement had outpaced many existing regulatory systems, creating barriers that can delay innovation and limit economic opportunities. He noted that regulatory authorities often operate independently under separate legal mandates, making coordination essential for supporting new technologies while maintaining effective oversight.

According to Inuwa, the new framework will encourage collaboration among public institutions, allowing regulators to better understand each other's responsibilities and develop more efficient approaches to governing innovation-driven sectors.

The initiative covers a broad range of sectors experiencing rapid technological transformation, including artificial intelligence, digital health, agriculture, mobility, logistics, clean energy, blockchain technologies, and digital public infrastructure.

Authorities plan to adopt a phased implementation strategy, beginning with a select group of participating agencies before expanding the framework to include additional regulators and stakeholders. Immediate priorities include developing operational guidelines, conducting stakeholder consultations, aligning institutional processes, and launching a six-month pilot phase.