NITDA Set to Launch Digital Trust Mark to Boost Confidence in Nigeria’s Online Economy
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced plans to officially launch its Digital Trust Mark initiative, a bold move aimed at improving consumer confidence and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global digital marketplace.
Developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), the Digital Trust Mark will serve as a seal of credibility and assurance. It will allow Nigerians, businesses, and public institutions to engage online with greater trust, transparency, and security.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, explained that the initiative is designed to address the growing trust deficit in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. According to him, while technology has become a powerful tool for innovation, it has also opened doors for cyber risks and fraudulent activities, discouraging people from doing business online.
“Technology is a double-edged sword,” Inuwa said. “While many use it to increase productivity and efficiency, others exploit it to cause harm. This lack of trust has made many Nigerians hesitant to transact online. The Digital Trust Mark will help fix that by giving every verified business a visible trust seal that assures safety and integrity.”
Inuwa noted that the initiative aligns closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors to boost Nigeria’s digital transformation. He added that this new system will help bridge policy and innovation gaps while building public confidence in online activities.
Sulaiman Adoga Ibrahim, Special Adviser to the National President of NACCIMA, also highlighted the importance of the project for both small and large businesses. He said the initiative would empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt secure digital practices, compete globally, and drive inclusive growth.
“We are honoured to stand with NITDA in this significant step toward advancing Nigeria’s digital economy,” Ibrahim said. “The Digital Trust Mark represents a visionary move that deepens accountability, promotes responsible innovation, and reinforces Nigeria’s global reputation as a trusted digital hub.”
Also commenting, Chinedu Albert, a consultant with GIZ, described the initiative as a reflection of global best practices, noting its alignment with the African Continental Digital Agreement. He stated that similar frameworks have been successful in other African countries such as Rwanda, but Nigeria’s version shows remarkable ambition and scalability.
“GIZ Nigeria is proud to support this initiative,” Albert said. “The Digital Trust Mark will not only enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness but also help local enterprises expand their influence across regional and global markets.”
The Digital Trust Mark is scheduled for its official launch on October 17, 2025, and is expected to play a key role in promoting trust, accountability, and innovation in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy.
