LAW AND TECHNOLOGY IN NIGERIA TODAY

There has been a recognizable shift in the World in regards to how technology now affects us. While technology has always existed and has had profound influence on almost every aspect of human life, in recent times, technology has more than tripped its impact in the world and more than ever we are dependent on technology.

Nigeria is no exception to this growth and development as more companies/ organizations are being set up in the world of technology such as; Fintech, Social media, Digital communication, Cyber security, Ai and so on.  These development while thriving and promising do not have the sufficient legal framework, regulations and compliance to govern them as there exist such a lacuna in the provisions of the Law in Nigeria.

This article seeks to highlight both the improvements and lapses that exist in the world of Nigerian Technology by exploring the opportunities and challenges that plague the Nigerian Technological world. Furthermore, it seeks to dwell on the positive aspects of technology in as broad a sense as possible.

TECHNOLOGY IN NIGERIA

The world of technology in Nigeria is governed by the National Information Technology Development Agency Act  2007 (NITDA). The National Information Technology Development Agency is responsible for developing, regulating and advising on information technology practices in Nigeria. It regulates both the public and private sectors. Other relevant legislations set up by  the National Information Technology Development Agency include: 

Nigerian Communication Act (NCA) 2003; this act regulates the communications sector, including telecommunication and internet services.   

Cybercrimes(Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) 2015 Act; this act address cybercrimes, including data privacy breeches.

Nigeria Data Protection Agency (NDPR) 2023; it is issued by NITDA and it focuses on data protection and privacy.

National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) Act; this act regulates the transfer of foreign technology to Nigeria.

Copyright Act, Patents and designs Act; these covers intellectual property rights related to technology.  

Most notable of the acts/bodies set up by the National Information Technology Development Agency is the Nigerian Data Protection Agency. It was formerly known as the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019. The NDPA lays out the rights of data subjects to access, rectify or erase their personal data. It also imposes responsibility on data controllers and processors, such as obtaining lawful consents and ensuring data security. The downside in this part is that most small and medium enterprises are blissfully unaware of their obligations under the law and there are actually no real measures in place to enforce compliance.

The Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act of 2015 in my opinion is a close second the the world of Nigerian Technology as it addressed a lot of the internet related frauds which include fraud, identity theft, cyberstalking and online embarrassment. While the act has helped in the reduction of said crimes, it has also reduced a fundamental human right enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution; Freedom of expression. It is also not an absolute bar of such crimes and compliance is though somewhat effective is still desirable and necessary.

THE IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY ON THE NIGERIAN LEGAL SYSTEM[1]

Technology plays a very crucial role in legal education and practice in Nigeria. The Nigerian legal system has been impacted by technology in the following ways:

Speedy Dispensation Of Justice One of the major challenges of the Nigerian Legal system is the backlog of cases. The judiciary is already overwhelmed with a lot of information and data, as well as a large number of cases. The application of technology in the judicial process has made it easier to access information, enabled swift and accurate research, and improved the delivery of justice thereby curbing the delay in the dispensation of justice.

Computer-Aided Legal Research

Technology has also impacted the Nigerian Legal System with computer-aided legal research and instructions. The introduction of online legal research sites such as LexisNexis, Legal Pedia, and Law Pavilion has lessened the difficulties of research as legal resources are easily accessible on the Internet. Law Pavilion is a Nigerian electronic law report and research software that judges, magistrates, lawyers, and even students can use. Law Pavilion makes legal research easier and faster than ever before. Law Pavilion also provides a case management system for law firms and a court management system.

Video Conferencing

The COVID-19 pandemic produced fundamental changes in the Nigerian legal system and opened the door to the usage of video conferencing innovations, which have now become ubiquitous. Video conferencing has eliminated physical barriers that could have hampered collaboration. Lawyers can now meet and negotiate with their clients from anywhere using video conferencing. It has also aided legal education by allowing students to attend online lectures. The pandemic also introduced the concept of Remote Court Proceedings (RCP) into the Nigerian legal system. Although this has not yet been fully adopted, it is in the planning stages.

ONLINE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

The introduction of Online Dispute Resolution is another notable impact of technology on the Nigerian legal system. Online dispute resolution (ODR) is a type of dispute resolution that employs technology to help parties resolve issues. ODR includes any type of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) that use the Internet, websites, e-mail, communications, streaming media, and other information technology as part of the dispute resolution process. To provide Alternative Dispute Resolution, ODR makes use of the resources provided by the Internet and technology in general.

Social Media Utilization

Social media has also had a huge impact on legal practice in Nigeria. It is a means of networking with colleagues, clients, and potential clients. Law firms also use websites and blogs to improve their practice and broaden their client base. They can contribute to legal education through this medium by writing commentaries and articles on judicial decisions and various legal concepts. Also, Lawyers can now network, discuss ideas, and seek assistance from their colleagues through online legal communities.

Improved Legal Services

Technology has also had a significant impact on the day-to-day operations of law firms and legal offices. With the advent of legal technology, there is increased transparency between law firms and clients. Clients are aware of the fees they must pay and can check the lawyer’s progress on their case on a daily basis. It has also boosted the efficiency and productivity of legal offices and clerical personnel. This has been proven to be incredibly beneficial to every law firm.

CONCLUSION

It is immensely clear that technology has greatly improved Nigeria more than anything else and there can always be room for more improvements to maximize growth in the technological sector and the said growth spills over to all other sectors. There is no sector that does not greatly profit from a fully functional technological world. It is also my opinion that at the speed that Nigerian Technological field is advancing, it is only a matter of time before our world is digitalized and our full potentials, unlocked.

Reference(S):

[1] O.M. Atoyebi, The Impact of Technology on the Nigerian Legal System, Omaplex Law Firm (JUNE 28, 2025, 12:18PM), https://omaplex.com.ng/the-impact-of-technology-on-the-nigerian-legal-system/