Having a steady and unlimited internet access is like a treasure or a dream come true most Nigerians crave for, as the internet has become a vital part of our everyday lives. In a country where the amount of money spent on internet bills annually can almost be measured to the cost of buying a fairly used car, Google station, a high-speed public WiFi programme service has brought salvation to this situation. Millions of Nigerians who share the desire for this dream come true bask in the excitement of this new development, as the launch of the station will cut across the education system, providing more easy access to E-Learning, and promote further literacy in the country.
It is about time that this limitless internet access reached Nigeria, as the country is in need of digital growth whether or not it is prepared for it. The digital economy has gotten to that level where businesses 90% of businesses are digitally inclined and without taking advantage of the opportunity may stunt their growth. Even though the digital economy is a limitless opportunity for some, it is also a disruption for others, like the local Taxi drivers, who were at the top of the food chain in the transportation industry in Nigeria but now displaced by the likes of Uber and Taxify offering enhanced digital transport services. However, businesses must learn to adapt to this beneficial change instead of taking the fall from the negative effects.
It is estimated that the Nigerian digital economy will generate $88 billion and create three million jobs for Nigerians before the end of 2021. Before Nigeria can blossom through this means, it must stop looking at the digital economy as an attack but as a means to redeem the strength of the economy and accept its changes.
Olatorera Consultancy Limited provides business development services to high net-worth individuals and companies looking to grow, enter or do business in Africa.