Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Applications for Governance Transformation in Nigeria

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and its largest economy, faces persistent governance challenges, ranging from opaque budget processes and entrenched corruption to underperforming infrastructure and low public trust. Despite a 2023 federal budget of ₦21.83 trillion, development outcomes remain weak due to inefficiencies, fund misappropriation, and lack of oversight. This paper proposes a digitally integrated governance model that combines blockchain technology for immutable, transparent financial tracking with Artificial Intelligence (AI) for real-time anomaly detection, predictive oversight, and automated compliance. Key innovations include blockchain-based budget traceability, smart contracts for milestone-based fund disbursements, AI-powered auditing tools, and secure digital ID systems for citizen engagement and e-voting. Drawing on global case studies and Nigeria’s unique socio-political landscape, the study presents a phased implementation roadmap rooted in legal reform, institutional capacity building, and citizen-centered design. Infrastructure gaps, digital illiteracy, data privacy concerns, and political resistance are critically assessed. If successfully deployed, the model could help unlock an estimated $260 billion in additional GDP by 2050, a 32% boost, by improving transparency, attracting foreign investment, and accelerating public service delivery. Ultimately, this approach offers a scalable, digitally sovereign path toward inclusive growth and sustainable development.