E-Commerce, Records Positive Growth – Minister

The Minister, Com
munications Technology, Mrs Onwbola Johnson, has said that e-commerce market has recorded positive growth following increased internet access and enhanced mobile connectivity.
The minister was quoted by a report released by First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) and made available to newsmen at the weekend in Abuja.
Johnson said the online trade, was expected to grow about $10 billion annually, going by the industry reports of 300,000 online orders placed daily.
About 73.9 million subscribers which represented an internet penetration of 43 per cent last year, was also counted as the benefits of the e-commerce.
She also noted that cashless policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), played a role in facilitating growth in electronic commerce due to the rate of emphasis it placed on the e-payment system.
While noting the challenges associated with online retail shops, the system has brought enough relief on shoping and other transactions.
The Tide investigations revealed that online retailers are set to partner courier operators inorder to meet up with customers demand.
A source from one of the online retailers (Jumia), disclosed that 60 per cent of its orders come from Lagos with mobile phones and other products.
She added that a strong growth in e-commerce could increase visibility and as well generate jobs.