A Nigerian lawmaker has said the proposed National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill—currently in its third reading—is a key plank in the country’s shift toward a fully digital society.
Speaking on Friday at the graduation ceremony for more than 350 residents of Ogun Central who completed a digital literacy course he funded, Salisu argued that the bill would help modernise Nigeria’s legal system to match the realities of a data-led economy.
He said the legislation is intended to update existing laws so they can function effectively in a society that is already becoming more digital. “The President wants me back in the Senate because of the significance of the National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill,” he said. “This measure will ensure that even as our society moves online, our laws—currently largely analog—are brought up to date and made to work alongside the data-driven environment we now live in.”
Salisu added that international stakeholders are monitoring the bill’s progress closely.
He said the global development community is waiting for the bill to be approved so additional support can be extended for Nigeria’s digital transformation. “The World Bank is expecting this bill to be signed into law so it can provide more assistance to Nigeria’s digital progress,” he said. “That is why the leadership of our party and the Senate consider my return to be important.”
Digital literacy training and graduation in Ogun Central
- The graduation event marked the end of a two-week digital skills programme designed to improve residents’ capacity in information and communication technology.
- The training ran from May 4 to May 15, 2026, with learning delivered through both online and in-person sessions.
- The initiative was organised in collaboration with Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and participants received ICT support, including laptops and other learning materials.
- Salisu said the programme forms part of a wider effort to improve constituents’ welfare through technology and education.
Speaking at the event, the senator described the work as an investment in people rather than a one-off distribution of items. “I feel extremely happy today because I am putting resources into people’s lives. Empowerment of this nature goes beyond handing out things; it equips young people with digital abilities that can help them earn a living and prepare them for future leadership,” he said.
He also said the graduation represents the ninth run of the initiative, adding that more than 2,000 constituents have benefited from it so far. “This is a deliberate choice to concentrate on education and technology,” he said, adding that the programme will continue and urging participants to make effective use of the training. He cautioned beneficiaries not to sell the laptops provided to them.
Local officials and participants praise the initiative
Odeda Local Government Chairman Hon. Folashade Adeyemo commended the senator, describing his approach as focused on results. She said the project could help lift many young people out of poverty and called him a “promise keeper” who practices what he preaches.
One participant, Mudashir Qodir Olanrewaju, said the training had transformed his outlook and skills. “I want to thank our distinguished senator for giving us this opportunity,” he said. “I learned website design and improved my Microsoft PowerPoint skills, and I am grateful to be part of this training.”
Olanrewaju urged fellow trainees to apply what they learned well beyond the programme, saying the opportunity should be used for personal growth and for improving their future.
Other dignitaries at the ceremony, including political leaders and local government officials, also praised the initiative as a practical effort to empower young people and strengthen the digital economy across Ogun State.
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