Two industry experts have urged targeted investment and regulatory reform to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation and support cloud computing growth.

Ayotunde Coker, managing director of Open Access Data Centre Ltd, and Gabriel Idahosa, president of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), made the call on Saturday.

They spoke at the LCCI Science and Technology Conference, which focused on AI, blockchain, and cloud computing as tools for economic development and improved governance.

The conference theme was: ‘Transforming Ideas, Businesses, and Governance through Basic Technologies: Leveraging AI, Blockchain, and Cloud.’

Mr Coker emphasised the rise in cloud adoption by Nigerian businesses, pointing to the advantages of locally hosted infrastructure for speed, cost, and data sovereignty.

“We need robust infrastructure and data localisation to power Nigeria’s digital economy and ensure compliance with national data protection requirements,” Mr Coker said during the panel session.

He highlighted the importance of balanced regulation that encourages innovation without creating barriers for businesses and investors in the technology space.

“Excessive regulation stifles growth. Thoughtful policy fosters innovation and builds trust,” Mr Coker stated, urging stakeholders to support pragmatic digital policies.

Mr Coker reflected on computing’s evolution from mainframes to modern technologies, linking infrastructure development to increased access and improved everyday digital services.

Mr Idahosa also stressed the role of foundational technologies like AI, blockchain, and cloud computing in reshaping Nigeria’s economy and public service delivery.

He described the adoption of these technologies as “a fundamental shift,” not just a passing trend in the country’s journey toward digital maturity.

“Nigeria stands at a crossroads. We must act now to harness the potential of these technologies for growth and better governance,” Mr Idahosa warned.

Both experts agreed that collaboration between the government and private sector is essential to unlock the benefits of digital transformation and position Nigeria as a tech leader.

(NAN)