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Remita has warned that Nigeria and other African countries face the threat of digital colonisation if they fail to build and enforce strong data ownership frameworks. Speaking at a recent industry forum, the company said growing dependence on foreign digital platforms places national data at risk and limits long-term economic sovereignty.
According to Remita, the rapid expansion of global technology firms across Africa has created new opportunities but also increased vulnerability. The company argued that without clear rules on data storage, processing, and control, countries could lose strategic decision-making power to external entities that manage critical digital infrastructure.
Industry experts at the event highlighted that data is now the most valuable resource for nations, shaping everything from financial services to national security. They warned that if Africa does not take full ownership of its digital ecosystem, it may eventually rely on companies and governments outside the continent for core digital services.
Remita stressed the need for strong local cloud infrastructure, better regulatory enforcement, and investments in homegrown technology companies. The firm added that digital sovereignty is not only a technical issue but a long-term economic survival strategy for developing nations.
The discussion also underscored that several African countries are still drafting or reviewing their data protection regulations, leaving significant gaps that foreign companies can exploit. Stakeholders say that establishing a unified regional data governance standard could help the continent strengthen its negotiating power.
As global competition for data intensifies, Remita called on governments, regulators, and private sector players to work together to ensure Africa retains control over its digital future.
According to Remita, the rapid expansion of global technology firms across Africa has created new opportunities but also increased vulnerability. The company argued that without clear rules on data storage, processing, and control, countries could lose strategic decision-making power to external entities that manage critical digital infrastructure.
Industry experts at the event highlighted that data is now the most valuable resource for nations, shaping everything from financial services to national security. They warned that if Africa does not take full ownership of its digital ecosystem, it may eventually rely on companies and governments outside the continent for core digital services.
Remita stressed the need for strong local cloud infrastructure, better regulatory enforcement, and investments in homegrown technology companies. The firm added that digital sovereignty is not only a technical issue but a long-term economic survival strategy for developing nations.
The discussion also underscored that several African countries are still drafting or reviewing their data protection regulations, leaving significant gaps that foreign companies can exploit. Stakeholders say that establishing a unified regional data governance standard could help the continent strengthen its negotiating power.
As global competition for data intensifies, Remita called on governments, regulators, and private sector players to work together to ensure Africa retains control over its digital future.