Hanu Fejiro Agbodje, a leading technology innovation expert and CEO of Patricia Technologies, has called on Nigeria to establish a Bitcoin reserve to secure its position in the evolving global economy. Agbodje believes cryptocurrency and other asset cloud properties have the potential to unlock unprecedented prosperity across the world.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Business Incorporated, Agbodje highlighted Nigeria’s significant adoption of cryptocurrency, with an estimated 33% of its population now investing in digital assets. This ranks the country second globally in cryptocurrency adoption, trailing only India, according to blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis.
“Nigeria needs to lead this aspect,” Agbodje remarked. “Just as we have gold and dollar reserves, it’s time to establish a Nigerian Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Bitcoin is an appreciating asset and offers a safeguard for future wealth, while also bringing us closer to financial sovereignty.”
Global Trends and Nigeria’s Potential Role
Agbodje pointed to recent developments in the global cryptocurrency landscape, including Bitcoin’s remarkable 116% surge last year. The growth was fueled by events such as the approval of Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), Bitcoin’s halving event in April, and Donald Trump’s U.S. presidential election victory in November.
The Patricia Technologies CEO expressed optimism about 2025, predicting further maturation of the cryptocurrency market, both globally and in Nigeria. “With Donald Trump returning to office, we are going to see a more pro-crypto America, which will in turn lead to a more pro-crypto world and regulations. This environment will foster the creation of more crypto products and could pave the way for the first Bitcoin reserve in America,” Agbodje said.
He emphasized the importance of Nigeria positioning itself strategically in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, urging the government to act decisively. “Bitcoin is here to stay, and there will be a race to see which nation establishes a Bitcoin reserve first. It’s not just about staying competitive but securing a first-mover advantage,” he added.
Lessons from El Salvador
Agbodje drew attention to El Salvador’s pioneering move to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021, under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele. The policy, he noted, has significantly benefited the Central American nation, improving banking access for citizens, attracting foreign investment, and boosting tourism by 95%.
“Bitcoin has proven its value in driving economic growth,” Agbodje said. “Nigeria must seize this opportunity to enhance its financial sovereignty and unlock new pathways to prosperity.”
Agbodje also predicted that Bitcoin’s value could reach $180,000 by the end of the year, calling 2025 a “bullish year” for cryptocurrency. He urged both the government and retail investors to capitalize on the opportunity, stressing that a Bitcoin reserve would cement Nigeria’s leadership in the rapidly expanding digital asset space.