Nigeria’s digital economy demands wider access to smartphones — Expert

A technology and business expert, Mr. Ajibade Folajimi, has called for wider access to affordable and quality smartphones, saying the devices have become indispensable tools for participation in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital economy.

The expert said smartphones have evolved beyond their traditional role as communication devices to become critical instruments for banking, commerce, education, healthcare, remote work and access to government and private sector services

Speaking during an interview, Folajimi argued that access to reliable smart devices should no longer be viewed as a luxury but as a necessity for economic participation and social inclusion.

According to him, millions of Nigerians now rely on smartphones to earn livelihoods, conduct financial transactions, access educational resources and manage businesses in an increasingly technology-driven environment.

“Today, your smartphone is your office, your bank, where you can carry out transactions without having to stand before a cashier, your classroom and, for many Nigerians, their primary business tool. Owning a reliable device is no longer about social status; it is about staying connected to opportunities and getting things done,” he said.

Folajimi noted that the 2023 cash shortage accelerated the adoption of mobile banking and digital payment platforms, demonstrating the growing importance of smartphones in everyday economic activities.

He observed that many small and medium-scale enterprises now depend almost entirely on smartphones to communicate with customers, receive payments, market products and coordinate business operations.

The technology entrepreneur stressed that as Nigeria pursues digital transformation and financial inclusion, ensuring wider access to dependable smart devices has become increasingly important.

He also emphasised the need for consumers to prioritise quality when purchasing smartphones and other digital gadgets, warning that unreliable devices could undermine productivity and expose users to security risks.

According to him, expanding access to quality smartphones would not only improve digital inclusion but also enhance entrepreneurship, innovation and employment opportunities, particularly among young people.

He added that greater investment in digital infrastructure, alongside improved access to affordable smart devices, would accelerate Nigeria’s transition to a knowledge-driven economy and unlock new opportunities for sustainable economic growth.