ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the development process for national-level digital policies, regulations, and bills that seek to maximise the benefits of digital technology and mitigate its risks, such as threats to privacy. Policymakers engage diverse stakeholders, particularly citizens, as part of this policymaking process, which provides opportunities for stakeholders to voice their opinions and ensure that policies, regulations, and bills reflect their needs and aspirations. Using Nigeria as a case study, this chapter analyses how policymakers engage with stakeholders – such as industry associations, consumer groups, and civil society – on technology-related policies, regulations, and bills. Whilst Nigeria does have guidelines for public consultation in policymaking, gaps remain in citizen engagement in national-level technology policymaking. Power asymmetries and resource constraints between stakeholder groups often lead to technology policies, regulations, and bills that do not adequately reflect citizen perspectives. The chapter discusses the level of stakeholder engagement in four technology policy and regulatory areas: expanding internet access, data protection in the digital economy, free speech on social media, and digital identification. It concludes with recommendations on how actors and institutions, including the recently formed EU–AU Digital for Development Hub, can assist African countries in developing citizen-centric and inclusive digital policymaking processes.
