Nigeria’s eNaira, Africa’s first CBDC launched in 2021, faces adoption challenges, reflecting broader issues for emerging market CBDCs. With only 666,000 wallets created and 35,000 transactions by late 2021, eNaira struggles against low public trust, driven by high inflation (16%) and a preference for cryptocurrencies (32% of Nigerians use them). Weak digital infrastructure, limited smartphone access, and a cash-dominated economy (62% of POS transactions) hinder uptake. Technical glitches, privacy concerns, and aggressive cash restriction policies sparked public backlash, while competition from decentralized cryptocurrencies adds pressure. These issues—insufficient infrastructure, trust deficits, cash reliance, and policy missteps—mirror challenges across emerging markets. Gradual implementation, robust infrastructure, and public education are key to overcoming these barriers for successful CBDC adoption.