The former Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Adeniji Kazeem (SAN), has underscored the need for a clear legal framework to navigate the digital world of e-commerce.
Speaking at a book launch titled: “Nigerian law of Electronic Transactions”, authored by him, noted that technology’s rapid evolution demands a legal system that adapts to protect its citizens.
Such a legal system, he said, must also serve the growing FinTech and technology sectors.
He said while industry summits often touch on regulatory compliance, the crucial aspect of legal protections for the users remain largely unexplored.
His words: “The surge in commercial technology offers a wealth of opportunities for the government as well.
“It streamlines public service delivery from easy online tax payments to efficient distribution of social programmes. In some government hospitals, electronic cards are used to hold medical records and act as wallets for payments, boosting efficiency for both patients and staff.
“Similarly, a thriving digital commerce landscape benefits the nation through increased tax revenue from transparent e-transactions, economic growth fuelled by a flourishing digital economy, and financial inclusion.
“It also fosters good governance by leaving an auditable trail that combats corruption. A robust e-commerce framework with clear regulations is key to unlocking these benefits.”
The book, with six chapters and 189 pages, delved into how the law can safeguard technology.
The author disclosed that the inspiration for writing the book arose from witnessing the rapid digital transformation reshaping commercial transactions across Nigeria and the globe.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), said that the book is a welcome idea.
“It is timely, and could not have come at a better time. In some of my recent public interventions, I have emphasised the fact that legal practice/education, and indeed all spheres of human existence can no longer feign ignorance of the pervasive effect of information and communication technology on our lives.
“This has even become more pronounced with the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence wherein physical human involvement is now gradually being limited and/or phased out in the way we live and do business.
“Expectedly, therefore, and as legal professionals, we cannot but take the bull by the horn, in proffering the ground rules for a seamless transition from our present situation to this new world order,” he advised.
He, therefore, recommended the book for everyone and encouraged all to go through its contents.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), lauded Kazeem’s contribution to legal practice, stating that the book came at the right time owing to the current trends across the globe.
The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, represented by Justice Yinka Faji, hailed the author, noting that with the new book, judges can now have more material to broaden their knowledge in digital space.
