LEADERSHIP INNOVATION AND THE DIGITALIZATION OF NIGERIAN ECONOMY

Abstract

The digital economy is now a strong force driving the global economy, and is reshaping the manner in which societies generate, disseminate, and consumer goods and services. The fast growth of digital technologies has created new opportunities for economic growth, job creation and social inclusion in Africa, particularly Nigeria. These opportunities are accompanied by continuing structural challenges, including a lack of digital literacy and IT infrastructure, poor governance and cyber security risks. The study looks at the roles of skills, innovation and leadership as key enablers of digital transformation in Africa, with a specific focus on Nigeria. The research type in this research is a non-empirical research type because the data used are secondary data, and the research approach is qualitative, combined with theoretical approaches, namely Human Capital Theory, Innovation Systems Theory and Transformational Leadership Theory. It is clear from the results that despite the high promise of the youthful population and the growing digital environment in Africa, it is becoming evident that systemic barriers are present and are hindering growth. The study suggests that to achieve sustainable digital growth, it is crucial to invest in human capital, foster innovation ecosystems, and cultivate adaptive and visionary leadership.

Keywords: Digital economy, social inclusion, strategic investment, human capital and innovation.

      ecosystems.