Nigeria: NITDA Reveals Second Phase of e-Government Master Plan for Enhanced Digital Services

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has introduced the second phase of Nigeria’s e-Government Master Plan, aimed at fostering transparency in governance and ensuring broader access to digital services.

Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of NITDA, unveiled the master plan in Abuja, emphasizing its role in facilitating seamless and inclusive digital service delivery. The event also marked the handover of key deliverables to the Chief Executive Officers of NITDA, National Identity Management Commission, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).

Represented by Mr. Oladejo Olawunmi, Director, IT Infrastructure Solutions, Inuwa highlighted that the event signifies the continuation of the implementation of the Nigerian e-Government master plan’s first phase, initially sponsored by the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

Under the Strategic Road Map and Action Plan, known as SRAP 2.0, the infrastructure pillar of the project is dedicated to ensuring seamless and inclusive access to digital services. The enterprise architecture, a disciplined organizational approach encompassing business processes, data, information, technology, and finance, is integral to achieving consistent outcomes across various government functions and mandates.

Inuwa stressed that the present administration is committed to leveraging ICT to enhance government transparency and the cost-effectiveness of public service delivery. He noted that NITDA, in alignment with its mandate, developed the Nigerian Government Enterprise Architecture during the first phase of the e-government master plan.

The successful implementation led to the initiation of various programs and initiatives, including IT project clearance, enhancement of the National IT Clearance policy, assessment of IT systems and digital services across 200 federal and public institutions, the establishment of the Digital Transformation Technical Working Group (DTTWG) in 100 institutions, and the training of 442 DTTWG members.

The Nigerian Government Enterprise Architecture plays a pivotal role in the implementation of e-government-related regulatory instruments, promoting interoperability among government services. The Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) stands out as a crucial component supporting the government’s drive to integrate services seamlessly.

Mr. Songil Son, the Country Director of the Korean International Corporation Agency (KOICA), outlined the project’s four components, commending the progress achieved under NITDA’s coordination.

Representatives from the NCS and NIS expressed optimism about the e-Government Master Plan, emphasizing its potential to streamline service delivery, enhance inclusivity, and promote transparency in digital governance. They pledged commitment to leverage the framework as a catalyst for realizing Nigeria’s strategic aspirations.