The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has inaugurated a Multi-Stakeholder Coordinating Group as part of efforts to strengthen digital governance and accelerate Nigeria’s transition to an IT-driven public sector.
The initiative, unveiled by NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, is designed to enhance collaboration among key players in the digital ecosystem while aligning with the broader reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Abuja, Abdullahi said the move reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to digital governance, following the country’s recent recognition at the Open Government Partnership Global Conference in Spain, where it secured both national and regional awards.
He stressed that adopting a co-creation approach would be critical in strengthening policy frameworks such as the National e-Governance and Digital Economy Bill, the Data Protection Act, and other interoperability standards guiding government digital systems.
Highlighting the agency’s recent achievements, Abdullahi disclosed that NITDA cleared over ₦1.5 trillion worth of federal IT projects within the past year, resulting in savings exceeding ₦319 billion through its IT clearance process. He, however, raised concerns over inefficiencies in public sector IT delivery, noting that more than half of such projects have historically failed to meet expectations.
To address these gaps, the NITDA boss called for stricter adherence to certified system designs, professional execution, and robust quality assurance mechanisms.
He also emphasized inclusivity in digital transformation efforts, advocating for greater consideration of underserved communities, persons with disabilities, children, and the elderly.
The newly inaugurated coordinating group is expected to drive collaboration, improve transparency, and ensure secure, sustainable digital service delivery across government institutions, in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
