DYNAMICS AND CHALLENGES OF DATA ECONOMY IN A DIGITAL ECONOMY IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF KATSINA STATE, 2015-2023.

Abstract

The data economy, a pivotal subset of the broader digital economy, has rapidly transformed societies, businesses, and governance structures, generating unprecedented opportunities and challenges. This study presents a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and prospects inherent in the data economy, with a specific focus on its impact on marginalized communities. Through a mixed-methods approach involving quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, this research uncovers the intricate socio-economic dynamics that shape the relationship between data-driven practices and marginalized individuals. The quantitative analysis reveals persistent digital access disparities, privacy concerns rooted in historical injustices, and complex perceptions of empowerment through data within marginalized communities. Qualitative narratives illuminate instances of algorithmic bias that reinforce inequalities and the potential for data to act as a catalyst for positive change. Ethical dilemmas arising from data-driven practices underscore the need for regulatory frameworks that safeguard marginalized communities' interests. By synthesizing these findings, the study uncovers a complex landscape where challenges intersect with prospects. Bridging the digital divide, addressing privacy apprehensions, and harnessing data for community empowerment emerge as challenges. However, the study also identifies prospects such as amplifying empowerment, policy innovation, and technology-enabled solutions. This study highlights the intersectional nature of the data economy's impact and emphasizes the importance of an equitable, community-centered approach. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding the data economy's impact on marginalized communities, offering insights that inform policies, regulations, and community-driven strategies. As the world navigates the evolving landscape of the data economy, the findings presented herein provide a roadmap for ensuring that its benefits are equitably distributed and empower marginalized individuals in their pursuit of socio-economic advancement and social justice.