Jumia and Nigerian Ministry Join Forces to Accelerate Digital Inclusion, E-Commerce Growth
In a strategic effort to enhance Nigeria’s e-commerce landscape and foster digital inclusion, Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, met with Jumia Nigeria’s leadership to align private sector innovation with upcoming national digital reforms outlined in the proposed 2024 National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill.
The high-level Abuja meeting brought together senior officials from the Ministry and Jumia Nigeria, including CEO Temidayo Ojo, Regional Head of Public Relations & Communications Robert Awodu, and Head of Legal Uche Allison. Discussions focused on strengthening Nigeria’s e-commerce ecosystem, expanding internet access to rural communities, and increasing competitiveness within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
CEO Temidayo Ojo expressed Jumia’s dedication, stating, “The Honourable Minister’s vision for a digitally inclusive Nigeria is both bold and necessary. Through initiatives like our E-Commerce in Rural Areas programme, we are bridging the digital divide and connecting more Nigerians to the opportunities of the digital economy.”
He further highlighted Jumia’s efforts, including extending online shopping access to underserved rural communities through pickup stations, a nationwide logistics network, and JForce, a network of local independent sales consultants.
Welcoming the Jumia delegation, Dr. Oduwole emphasized the importance of aligning e-commerce activities with the upcoming E-Governance Bill, which provides a legal framework for electronic transactions, data protection, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure development. She underscored that such legislation aims to drive economic growth, improve public service delivery, and position Nigeria as a key player in the global digital economy.
“Nigeria’s rapid progress in digital commerce, services, and innovation has positioned us at the forefront of Africa’s digital trade,” she said. “Our leadership in mobile payments is transforming cross-border trade, expanding financial inclusion, and accelerating digital transactions across the continent. Establishing a strong legal foundation is essential to sustain this momentum.”
The Minister also encouraged her team to review Jumia’s E-Commerce in Rural Areas report and promote its findings nationally.
The meeting was attended by senior Ministry officials and industry stakeholders, including Mrs. Giwa-Williams Latifat (Secretary, NACEDE Trade Department), Aminu Dogondaji (Director of Special Duties), Zulaikha Abdullahi (Deputy Director, WTO/Intra-Africa), Mrs. Patience Okala (Special Adviser), Mrs. Olajumoke Dan-Okayi (Senior Special Assistant), and Mr. Israel Opayemi (Managing Director, Chain Reactions Africa).