Nigeria has intensified efforts to position itself as Africa’s leading data hub, urging Chinese technology giants to invest early in the country’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
Director General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe, made the call at the ‘China International Big Data Industry Expo’ and ‘Digital Silk Road Connection’ in Guiyang, China, where he outlined Nigeria’s vision for a digital future.
Tegbe said Nigeria’s demographics and infrastructure gave it an edge: “With 220 million people, largely young and tech-driven, and over 160 million internet users, Nigeria is primed for a digital leap.”
He added: “Nigeria’s data centre market, valued at $278 million in 2024, is projected to grow to $671 million by 2030. With Africa’s internet user base already above 570 million and mobile traffic expanding at 40 per cent annually, demand for digital capacity is clear and urgent.”
Tegbe urged Chinese firms to be early movers: “Nigeria is a natural partner for China in replicating its digital transformation story on African soil.”
He outlined four areas of cooperation: hyperscale data centres and cloud zones, diversifying global AI supply chains with African datasets, establishing joint laboratories in agriculture, health and finance, and strengthening research and exchange programmes to train digital talent.
On broader opportunities, he said: “The countries that will thrive in the modern economy are not those with the most minerals, but those who can harness data for their people.”
Tegbe also praised Chinese companies already embedded in Nigeria’s story. “Firms such as CCCC, CRCC, CCECC, CHEC, Huawei, and ZTE have already woven themselves into Nigeria’s economic story through contributions in infrastructure and technology. Their experience has positioned them well to lead the next phase of digital cooperation.”
He concluded: “The world is entering a new era where data is the new oil. If we align China’s expertise with Nigeria’s innovation and Africa’s vast markets, we can create new Silk Roads of digital opportunity. Nigeria is ready. Africa is ready.”
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
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