Integrate Digital Economy for Inclusive Development and Rural Livelihood in Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The growth of digital economy promotes inclusive development and improves rural livelihoods throughout Africa. Rural communities can benefit from better access to markets, financial services, healthcare, education, and government initiatives by utilising digital technologies, which will promote resilience and socioeconomic inclusion.

Objectives: To address the historical disparities between urban and rural dwellers, this study examines the impact of digital tools, including digital identification systems, e-commerce, e-agriculture, and e-banking services. It showcases effective models like digital agricultural platforms, mobile money systems and e-learning programmes. It also assesses enduring challenges to digital inclusion, such as lack of local content, digital illiteracy, poor infrastructure, and policy gaps.

Methods: This study employs a descriptive research design to investigate the multidimensional effects of digital tools on the livelihoods of rural populations, utilising secondary data from existing literature to analyse the socioeconomic indicators and digital integration dimensions for rural livelihoods. A thematic approach was employed to discuss the degree of transformations in e-agriculture platforms, e-education, and mobile money systems in the Nigerian rural communities.

Results: The study revealed the necessity of deliberate approaches to create rural digital ecosystems that combine funding for local innovation, infrastructure, and education. It also revealed the importance of incorporating rural entrepreneurship and digital literacy into the development agenda. The study suggests policy ideas on how the Nigerian government can unleash the strengths of the rural populace and create more sustainable and digitally empowered societies by coordinating digital transformation with inclusive development goals.

Conclusions: The study concludes that high usage of digital tools for economic purposes will promote inclusive growth and enable sustainable development.