Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is considering the development of a domestic blockchain named “Nigerium.” This initiative aims to enhance national security and safeguard citizens’ data.
Ensuring Compliance and Control
NITDA Director General Kashifu Abdullahi has endorsed plans to create a local blockchain, asserting that such a protocol would ensure compliance with Nigerian laws and grant the country greater control over its data. Abdullahi emphasizes that a domestically developed blockchain, supported by experts like Chanu Kuppuswamy from the University of Hertfordshire Law School, is essential for national security.
According to a Reportafrique report, Kuppuswamy and her colleagues advocate for a Nigerian blockchain, arguing that reliance on foreign-developed protocols like Ethereum poses significant risks due to the lack of governmental control.
Advantages of a Domestic Blockchain
- Legal Compliance: A local blockchain would inherently comply with Nigerian laws, unlike foreign-developed protocols.
- Data Sovereignty: Ensures Nigerian data remains under national control, enhancing data protection.
- Enhanced Security: Reduces the risk of cyberattacks by maintaining control over the blockchain infrastructure.
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Securing National Information
Kuppuswamy’s delegation has also proposed establishing a data embassy or server hosted in a neutral third country. This measure would ensure Nigerian data remains secure from cyber threats and other vulnerabilities. The data embassy would act as a safeguard, ensuring that critical information is protected even if domestic servers are compromised.
The development of Nigerium is expected to involve collaboration between NITDA and key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. While the report by Reportafrique highlights the importance of this initiative, it does not specify when work on the domestic blockchain is expected to commence.
