**Nigeria Embraces Blockchain with New Platform**

Nigeria is making strides in blockchain technology with plans to launch a homegrown platform called "Nigerium." YellowCard's co-founders, Justin Poiroux and Chris Maurice, shared insights on the government's blockchain adoption strategy.

**Key Points:**

- **Private Sector Role:** Maurice emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) to ensure effective implementation and longevity of blockchain initiatives.

- **Challenges:** Poiroux highlighted the gap in institutional knowledge and the need for universal smartphone access to bridge the digital divide.

- **Government Initiatives:** Nigeria's National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is spearheading efforts to promote local innovation and self-sufficiency in the tech sector.

Nigeria's focus on blockchain aims to enhance digital identity management, fraud prevention, and supply chain tracking, setting a precedent for other nations.