Nigeria has launched a National Blockchain Education Programme aimed at strengthening digital skills, promoting responsible innovation and preparing young people for emerging opportunities in the country’s digital economy.
The programme followed a two-day engagement held at the National Assembly in Abuja on October 2026, featuring a review of the proposed curriculum and its official launch.
The initiative was convened by the Blockchain Adoption Initiative in collaboration with Baze University, the African University of Science and Technology, and Nile University of Nigeria. It brought together stakeholders from academia, industry and regulatory institutions to advance blockchain education and promote the responsible adoption of the technology.
Baze University was represented by its Director of IT, Dr Alhassan Abdulmutallib, alongside officials from its Legal Department. Their participation highlighted the importance of integrating technological innovation with legal compliance and data protection in the development and application of emerging technologies.
The curriculum review on the first day focused on practical blockchain skills, cybersecurity, data protection, regulatory compliance and entrepreneurship. Participants also examined the proposed learning outcomes and the need to incorporate hands-on training that reflects Nigeria’s economic and technological priorities.
Speaking at the engagement, the Chairman of the House Committee on Delegated Legislation, Hon. Olufemi Richard Bamisile, said blockchain technology had applications beyond cryptocurrency, including banking, agriculture and digital identity management.
He emphasised the need to equip Nigerians with practical digital skills through a curriculum that combines technical training, cybersecurity awareness and effective regulation.
Bamisile commended the Blockchain Adoption Initiative and the three collaborating universities for their contributions to the programme, urging stakeholders to ensure that it produces measurable results in skills development, research, entrepreneurship and employment.
He said the initiative should help prepare young Nigerians to become innovators, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers capable of applying emerging technologies to address economic and societal challenges.
The lawmaker also stressed the importance of public education on blockchain infrastructure, its underlying technology and potential applications. He noted that greater public understanding, supported by a skilled workforce and appropriate safeguards for cybersecurity and data protection, would encourage responsible adoption and strengthen the industry.
The programme was officially launched on the second day, with speakers underscoring the need to complement technical knowledge with an understanding of the ethical, legal and regulatory responsibilities associated with emerging technologies.
Baze University’s participation reflects the growing role of academic institutions in developing digital skills and fostering partnerships between education and industry.
The initiative is expected to contribute to the development of blockchain expertise, support innovation and entrepreneurship, and expand opportunities for Nigerians to participate in the country’s evolving digital economy.
