By Fom Gyem,

In today’s interconnected world, every online bank transfer, e-commerce purchase, hospital record, government portal login and video conference relies on an unseen yet indispensable foundation: cloud infrastructure. While billions of people interact with digital services every day, few stop to consider the complex technological ecosystem that powers these experiences. Quietly operating behind the scenes, cloud infrastructure has become the backbone of the modern digital economy, supporting everything from smartphones and social media platforms to artificial intelligence (AI), financial technology (fintech) and critical national security systems.

As countries race to build resilient digital economies, cloud infrastructure is no longer viewed merely as a technological necessity; it has become a strategic national asset. At its core, cloud infrastructure comprises interconnected data centres, servers, storage systems, networking equipment, software and virtualisation technologies that deliver computing services over the internet. Rather than relying on individual computers or on-premises servers, organisations can securely access computing resources remotely, enabling greater flexibility, scalability and efficiency.

This transformation has fundamentally changed how governments and businesses operate. Organisations can now scale computing resources on demand, reduce infrastructure costs, improve operational efficiency and deploy digital services faster than ever before. Whether streaming a movie, attending an online class, booking a flight or processing millions of financial transactions, cloud infrastructure ensures these services remain secure, reliable and accessible around the clock.

Beyond convenience, cloud infrastructure has become a cornerstone of economic competitiveness. Countries with robust cloud ecosystems attract technology investments, stimulate innovation, create high-skilled jobs and strengthen their digital economies. Cloud services facilitate digital trade, enable seamless cross-border business operations and provide the computing power required for emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT). They also enhance business continuity by distributing data across multiple locations, reducing the risks posed by hardware failures, cyberattacks and natural disasters while ensuring that essential services remain operational.

Nigeria’s expanding digital economy has heightened the urgency of developing resilient cloud infrastructure. With millions of citizens relying on digital banking, e-commerce, online education, healthcare technologies and e-government services, the country requires secure, reliable and scalable digital systems capable of supporting future growth.

Recognising this imperative, policymakers have intensified efforts to strengthen local cloud capacity, improve data governance, encourage investment in data centres and establish standards that inspire confidence among businesses and international investors. These initiatives are expected to stimulate indigenous innovation, create employment opportunities, enhance public service delivery and position Nigeria as one of Africa’s leading digital economies.

For decades, nations measured sovereignty through the strength of their borders, military capabilities and economic resilience. Today, however, a new frontier has emerged: digital sovereignty. In an era where government services, financial transactions, artificial intelligence and national security increasingly depend on digital infrastructure, a country’s ability to control, secure and govern its own data has become a defining measure of national development.

It was against this backdrop that government officials, private sector leaders, development partners, academics and technology experts gathered to witness what many described as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.

At the centre of the event was the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), which formally commenced the implementation phase of the National Sovereign Cloud Initiative (NSCI). Through the unveiling of a comprehensive regulatory framework, the agency signalled Nigeria’s determination to reshape its digital landscape. More than the signing of regulatory documents, the event represented a bold declaration of intent to build a trusted digital ecosystem capable of supporting innovation, safeguarding national interests and attracting global investment.

The highlight of the ceremony was the signing of three foundational regulatory instruments by NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi. These included the National Cloud Computing Guideline, the National Cloud Technical Guideline and the National Digital Infrastructure Assurance Framework (NDIAF). Alongside the unveiling of the National Cloud Investment Strategy, these instruments establish the policy, governance and technical architecture required to guide cloud adoption, strengthen digital infrastructure assurance and stimulate long-term investment in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital economy.

The milestone marked the culmination of years of consultation involving government institutions, indigenous cloud providers, international hyperscale cloud companies, data centre operators and development partners. It also builds upon the Federal Government’s Cloud First Policy, ensuring that Nigeria develops cloud infrastructure that aligns with global best practices while protecting national interests.

Beyond policy formulation, NITDA plans to establish the Sovereign Cloud Governance Committee to provide strategic oversight of the initiative. Before October 2026, the agency also intends to operationalise a national digital regulatory platform that will streamline the registration, assessment, certification and compliance processes for cloud service providers and digital infrastructure operators.

The certification programme is expected to become one of the most significant confidence-building mechanisms within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. By certifying cloud providers, data centre operators, managed service providers, AI infrastructure providers and sovereign compute operators, the framework seeks to assure government institutions, financial organisations and businesses that certified providers meet nationally approved standards for security, resilience and operational excellence.

Ultimately, the National Sovereign Cloud Initiative marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s digital evolution—one in which sovereignty extends beyond physical borders into cyberspace, where data is recognised as a strategic national asset and trusted digital infrastructure serves as a catalyst for innovation, economic growth and regional leadership.

If effectively implemented through sustained collaboration among government, regulators, industry and development partners, the initiative could become one of the defining milestones in Nigeria’s journey towards a resilient, secure and globally competitive digital future. In an increasingly digital world, the nations that control and protect their digital infrastructure will be best positioned to shape the future. Nigeria has now taken a decisive step in that direction.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building an inclusive, innovation-driven artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem as stakeholders from government, industry and development organisations converged in Abuja for the official launch of the ECOWAS Small Business Coalition (ESBC)-INNOPOWER Free MSMEs AI Master Trainer Programme.

The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, at the event held at the United Nations House, Abuja, described artificial intelligence as a transformative force whose impact is already being felt across the globe.

In his goodwill message, the DG, who was represented by the Director of Digital Development Services, Mr Oladejo Olawunmi, said the launch of the programme reflected a shared commitment to equipping Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven economy.

He noted that the initiative comes at a critical time, stressing that “Artificial Intelligence is no longer a technology of the future but a defining force of the present, reshaping economies, transforming industries and redefining how governments, businesses and societies create value.”

According to him, the rapid evolution of AI presents Nigeria with an opportunity to position itself as a producer of innovative solutions rather than merely a consumer of emerging technologies. He explained that NITDA is implementing the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy to strengthen AI infrastructure, foster a world-class innovation ecosystem, accelerate AI adoption across critical sectors, promote responsible and trustworthy AI development, and establish a governance framework that ensures AI serves humanity responsibly.

Highlighting the philosophy driving the strategy, he said that “Nigeria has made a deliberate choice, rather than remain a passive consumer of AI built elsewhere, we are building the foundations to become an active contributor to the global AI ecosystem.”

Inuwa also underscored the importance of investing in digital infrastructure, indigenous AI capabilities and human capital, noting that initiatives such as the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), the Nigeria AI Collective, the N-ATLAS multilingual large language model, the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) programme and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative are all designed to prepare Nigerians for the opportunities of the digital economy.

Speaking on the importance of the MSME AI Master Trainer Programme, the DG said small businesses remain the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and stand to benefit immensely from AI adoption through improved productivity, automation and expanded market opportunities.

He maintained that the success of Africa’s AI journey would depend not only on technology but on investments in people, institutions and partnerships, adding that “the countries that lead the AI economy will not be those that consume the most AI solutions, but those that cultivate talent, build infrastructure, and create ecosystems where innovation can flourish responsibly.”

Commending INNOPOWER and the ECOWAS Small Business Coalition for bringing together stakeholders from across the public and private sectors, he described the initiative as an important platform for advancing responsible AI adoption, strengthening collaboration and empowering entrepreneurs across Nigeria and the wider ECOWAS region.

He further stressed the need to develop sovereign digital infrastructure, preserve indigenous languages within AI systems and expand digital literacy so that every Nigerian can participate meaningfully in the country’s digital transformation journey.

Looking ahead, Inuwa said Africa stands at a defining moment in its technological evolution and must seize the opportunity to become a builder of AI solutions rather than simply a consumer. He emphasised that NITDA remains committed to working with partners across government, industry and academia to build a resilient and globally competitive AI ecosystem.

“History shows that every technological revolution reshapes the global balance of power. The nations that prosper are not always those with the greatest resources, but those with the foresight to invest in their people and build ecosystems that turn ideas into prosperity,” he concluded.

In his welcome address, the Regional President of the ESBC, Dr Abdulrashid Yerima described the MSME AI Master Trainer Programme as a strategic investment in Africa’s human capital, aimed at equipping trainers with practical AI skills to empower entrepreneurs and strengthen MSMEs across the region.

He said the initiative would expand economic opportunities, create quality jobs and accelerate sustainable industrial development, while urging participants to leverage the knowledge gained to transform their businesses.

He also called for stronger collaboration among governments, development partners, financial institutions, academia and the private sector to build an AI-driven economy that enhances Africa’s global competitiveness and delivers inclusive economic growth.

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The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has opened applications for its $150 million Offshore Expansion Facility, a financing initiative designed to provide long-term, low-interest capital for Nigerian businesses seeking to expand and modernize their operations.

The funding programme, developed in partnership with Germany-based commercial banking group ODDO BHF SE, was unveiled during the Infrastructure Conference (INFRACON) 2026 at the AFREXIM Tower in Abuja, where NACCIMA also launched a dedicated digital application portal to streamline access to the facility.

The association described the portal as a major milestone in digitising foreign direct investment origination for Nigeria’s organised private sector. The platform and operational framework were jointly presented by Chairman of the Joint NACCIMA–ODDO BHF Working Group Committee and former Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Waheed Olagunju, alongside NACCIMA’s Digital Economy Coordinator and Chairman of the Digital Economy Trade Group, Dr. Segun Olugbile.

The $150 million facility is expected to provide qualified Nigerian enterprises with patient, long-term expansion capital at single-digit interest rates, targeting strategic sectors including manufacturing (excluding defence), agro-allied processing, energy, logistics, mineral beneficiation, transportation and information and communication technology (ICT). NACCIMA disclosed that 20 per cent of the total funding has been reserved for the digital economy and ICT sector.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Olagunju described the initiative as a transparent investment pipeline aimed at strengthening investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

“What we are launching today is a transparent, globally aligned investment origination pipeline as a demonstration of investors’ confidence in Nigeria’s economy,” he said.

According to him, the Joint NACCIMA–ODDO BHF Committee has established a rigorous framework that enables viable and environmentally compliant Nigerian enterprises to access financing starting from a minimum of $10 million for the acquisition of European machinery, equipment and technology needed to scale their operations.

He also highlighted the security features of the digital platform, noting that it was built to meet international banking standards.

“To attract world-class European investment, our digital infrastructure must inspire absolute confidence and trust. This secure e-Portal has been developed with bank-grade encryption and complies with existing regulations. It automates Know-Your-Customer verification and integrates a secure framework to ensure that the proprietary financial information of applicants remains fully protected throughout the transaction process,” Olagunju stated.

Under the financing arrangement, eligible businesses can access a minimum facility of $10 million with a repayment period of at least seven-and-a-half years. Beneficiaries are required to allocate between 35 and 50 per cent of the financing to the procurement of approved goods, equipment, machinery and services from Europe, while the remaining funds may be invested within Nigeria or other approved markets.

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate strong financial viability by providing a minimum of three years of audited financial statements and evidence of compliance with environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.

NACCIMA further stated that only verified financial members of recognised organised private sector associations, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), the Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI), or NACCIMA itself, will be eligible to participate.

The association said the initiative reflects its commitment to creating credible international financing opportunities for Nigerian businesses through strategic global partnerships.

According to NACCIMA, the programme is expected to strengthen private sector competitiveness, accelerate industrial growth and support sustainable economic transformation by improving access to affordable long-term capital for productive enterprises.

The deadline for the application is 11th September 2026

Applications for the facility are now open through NACCIMA’s dedicated digital portal, while enquiries can be directed to the association’s national secretariat via its official support channels.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has officially commenced the implementation of the National Sovereign Cloud Initiative (NSCI), unveiling a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital sovereignty, attracting cloud infrastructure investments and positioning the country as Africa’s preferred hub for trusted digital infrastructure.

The milestone was marked by the formal signing of three key regulatory instruments by NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, alongside the presentation of the National Cloud Investment Strategy during a ceremony attended by senior government officials, regulators, industry leaders, development partners and technology stakeholders.

The regulatory instruments signed include the National Cloud Computing Guideline, the National Cloud Technical Guideline, and the National Digital Infrastructure Assurance Framework (NDIAF), all designed to provide regulatory certainty, technical standards and assurance mechanisms for the country’s cloud ecosystem.

NITDA also unveiled the National Cloud Investment Strategy, which outlines Nigeria’s roadmap for attracting sustainable investments in cloud infrastructure, data centres, sovereign computing, artificial intelligence infrastructure and other critical digital assets.

Speaking at the event, Kashifu described cloud infrastructure as a strategic national asset that supports digital government, financial services, artificial intelligence, digital trade, innovation and economic resilience.

“Today’s signing marks our transition from policy development to implementation. These instruments provide the regulatory certainty, technical standards, and assurance framework required to build a trusted cloud ecosystem that safeguards Nigeria’s digital sovereignty while creating new opportunities for investment, innovation and sustainable economic growth,” he said.

According to the NITDA boss, the signing concludes the policy development phase of the National Sovereign Cloud Initiative and ushers in a phased implementation programme to be executed in collaboration with government institutions, sector regulators, academia, industry, development partners and the private sector.

He noted that the initiative builds upon the Federal Government’s Cloud First Policy and is the outcome of years of extensive consultations involving government agencies, indigenous cloud providers, global hyperscale cloud companies, data centre operators and development partners.

As part of the implementation roadmap, Kashifu disclosed that NITDA will constitute the Sovereign Cloud Governance Committee (SovGov) within two weeks to provide strategic oversight for the initiative. The committee will comprise representatives from relevant government institutions, regulators and the private sector, while NITDA will serve as its secretariat.

NITDA Boss also announced plans to operationalise a national digital regulatory platform before October 2026. The platform will function as a central portal for cloud service provider registration, onboarding, technical assessment, certification, publication of certified providers, certification verification and other regulatory services.

Following the launch of the platform, NITDA will commence the registration, technical assessment and certification of Cloud Service Providers, Data Centre Operators, Managed Service Providers, AI Infrastructure Providers, Sovereign Compute Providers and other eligible digital infrastructure operators under the National Digital Infrastructure Assurance Framework.

The certification programme, expected to begin in October, will facilitate compliance with cloud localisation requirements and operational resilience standards, including those introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), while providing government institutions and regulated sectors with a trusted register of certified providers.

Representing the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, Director of the Payment System Supervision Department, Dr. Rakiya Opemi Yusuf, described the initiative as a defining moment in Nigeria’s digital transformation and financial system resilience.

She said financial stability has evolved beyond traditional banking metrics to include the reliability of digital infrastructure such as cloud platforms, data centres, cybersecurity architecture and identity systems.

“Financial stability now depends equally on digital stability. Every mobile payment, POS transaction, ATM withdrawal, electronic transfer and fintech service ultimately depends on the reliability of digital infrastructure,” she said.

Yusuf explained that the CBN’s Data Localisation Circular issued on June 25, 2026 was designed to strengthen the resilience of Nigeria’s financial system by ensuring that financial data remains protected under Nigerian jurisdiction rather than creating barriers to innovation.

She added that NITDA’s assurance framework complements the CBN’s prudential regulations by providing standards through which digital infrastructure providers can demonstrate resilience, operational readiness and security.

The CBN representative also announced that the apex bank is finalising a comprehensive implementation guideline on payment transaction data localisation to provide greater clarity on compliance expectations for financial institutions.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, described the initiative as a critical milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of digital independence, data governance and national security.

According to him, data has become one of the most strategic national assets in the digital age, making sovereign control over government and critical information essential for economic stability and public trust.

He said the initiative would strengthen Nigeria’s digital government infrastructure while stimulating local cloud capacity, encouraging domestic technology investments, creating high-skilled jobs and empowering indigenous innovators.

Gagare commended NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi and the agency’s technical team for providing visionary leadership in advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda.

He reaffirmed the Federal Ministry’s commitment to supporting seamless implementation of the initiative across ministries, departments and agencies.

The National Sovereign Cloud Initiative is the Federal Government’s strategic programme coordinated by NITDA to strengthen Nigeria’s digital sovereignty and accelerate the adoption of trusted cloud infrastructure.

The initiative provides a unified national framework for cloud governance, technical standards, digital infrastructure assurance and investment promotion through the National Cloud Computing Guideline, National Cloud Technical Guideline, National Digital Infrastructure Assurance Framework and the National Cloud Investment Strategy.

Officials said the programme is expected to reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to building a secure, resilient and investment-friendly digital ecosystem while positioning the country as Africa’s leading destination for cloud services, data centres, artificial intelligence infrastructure and trusted digital infrastructure under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has renewed its call for stronger collaboration among government institutions, industry players, academia and technology professionals to accelerate digital innovation and position Nigeria for inclusive economic growth.

The Agency made the call at the 20th Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) International Conference 2026 held in Jos, Plateau State, where stakeholders gathered to explore how emerging technologies can be harnessed to drive governance reforms, job creation and national competitiveness.

Representing the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Agency’s Director of Stakeholders Management and Partnerships, Aristotle Onumo, said Nigeria’s digital future depends on sustained investments in innovation, digital skills development, research and strategic partnerships capable of delivering measurable socio-economic impact.

According to him, NITDA remains committed to implementing its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan through initiatives that promote digital literacy, research and development, emerging technologies, cyber sovereignty and innovation-driven ecosystems aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital economy.

He added that the Agency is expanding opportunities for innovators, entrepreneurs and technology startups by creating platforms that encourage collaboration, investment and knowledge sharing across the country’s digital ecosystem.

“We are transforming Digital Nigeria into the nation’s foremost innovation platform where policymakers, investors, startups, researchers and technology companies can collaborate to accelerate economic growth and digital transformation,” he said.

Inuwa also encouraged innovators and startup founders to leverage the forthcoming Builders Summit as a platform to showcase indigenous technology solutions capable of addressing Nigeria’s critical development challenges.

Declaring the conference open, Caleb Mutfwang described digital technology as an indispensable driver of modern governance and economic development.

He said the Plateau State Government has embraced digital solutions to improve public service delivery, boost internally generated revenue and modernise government operations.

The governor further noted that technology would play a critical role in transforming agriculture, increasing productivity and strengthening food security, urging participants to ensure that discussions at the conference translate into practical solutions that would benefit the nation.

Earlier, President of the Nigeria Computer Society, Muhammad Sirajo, said the annual conference was designed to foster collaboration among policymakers, researchers, regulators and industry leaders on strategies for deploying emerging technologies to drive national development.

Speaking on the conference theme, “Harnessing Digital Innovation and Emerging Technologies for Inclusive Growth and Economic Renaissance (RISE 2026),” Sirajo identified artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing, cybersecurity and robotics as transformative technologies shaping the future of global economies.

He stressed that Nigeria’s youthful population and expanding digital ecosystem present a unique opportunity to build a globally competitive economy, provided investments in innovation, digital infrastructure and skills development remain national priorities.

The conference brought together government officials, regulators, technology professionals, academics, development partners and private-sector leaders to deliberate on policies, innovations and collaborative strategies expected to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation and drive inclusive economic renaissance.

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By Abbas Badmus,

New regulatory regime seeks to end costly IT failures, strengthen cybersecurity and position Nigerian software for global competitiveness

For years, Nigerians have grown accustomed to an all-too-familiar experience. Government websites suddenly become inaccessible at critical moments. Online portals crash under heavy traffic. Digital services designed to simplify public administration become sources of frustration, while businesses and government agencies grapple with software vulnerabilities that expose sensitive data to cyber threats.

Behind many of these challenges lies a common denominator—poor software quality.

As Nigeria’s economy becomes increasingly digital, the consequences of unreliable software have grown more severe. A single malfunction in a banking platform can disrupt millions of transactions. A compromised government database can threaten national security. An unstable digital identity system can undermine confidence in public institutions. These realities have reinforced an important lesson: digital transformation is only as strong as the software that powers it.

It is against this backdrop that the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has introduced what many technology experts consider one of the most consequential regulatory reforms in Nigeria’s digital history—the National Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Framework.

Signed by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, under the authority of the NITDA Act 2007, the framework establishes, for the first time, a comprehensive national standard governing how software is conceived, developed, tested, certified and deployed across Federal Government institutions, regulated industries and the country’s wider digital ecosystem.

The initiative represents a shift in national thinking. Rather than responding to software failures after they occur, Nigeria is adopting a preventive model in which quality, security and reliability become mandatory requirements from the earliest stages of software development.

Why Nigeria Needs a Software Quality Revolution

Nigeria’s digital economy has expanded remarkably over the past decade. Public services are increasingly delivered online, financial technology has transformed banking and payments, startups continue to innovate across multiple sectors, while businesses depend more than ever on digital infrastructure.

Yet this rapid digital expansion has not always been matched by corresponding improvements in software quality assurance.

Numerous digital projects have suffered from inadequate testing, poor documentation, security loopholes and interoperability challenges. In some cases, software systems have required expensive redesigns shortly after deployment. Others have struggled to cope with increased user demand or evolving cybersecurity threats.

The financial implications are enormous. Beyond the direct cost of failed IT projects, unreliable software undermines investor confidence, reduces productivity and weakens citizens’ trust in digital governance.

NITDA’s new framework seeks to change this narrative by institutionalising quality assurance as a compulsory component of software development rather than an optional afterthought.

A Comprehensive Framework Built on Three Pillars

At the heart of the initiative is an integrated regulatory structure combining three complementary instruments that together address every stage of the software lifecycle.

The National Software Development Guideline introduces internationally recognised software engineering standards. Developers are expected to follow structured development methodologies, implement secure coding practices based on OWASP standards, maintain comprehensive system documentation and ensure citizen-facing applications comply with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 AA). This means digital services must not only function effectively but also remain accessible to persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable users.

Complementing this is the National Software Testing Guideline, which establishes mandatory benchmarks for evaluating software before deployment. Applications must demonstrate functionality, cybersecurity resilience, performance under peak operational loads and seamless interoperability with other systems before they can be approved for public use.

Perhaps the most transformative aspect of the framework is the Software Testing Organisations Licensing (STOL) Guideline. Through this initiative, NITDA will license and regulate independent Licensed Software Testing Organisations (LSTOs), creating an impartial certification system that separates software development from software validation. This independent assessment model aligns with international best practices and enhances transparency in government technology procurement.

No Certification, No Deployment

One of the framework’s most significant provisions is its mandatory certification requirement.

Government software projects will no longer proceed directly from development to deployment. Every qualifying project must first undergo independent third-party testing and receive official certification before going live.

Compliance with the framework also becomes a prerequisite for obtaining IT Project Clearance, effectively placing software quality assurance at the centre of Nigeria’s digital governance architecture.

For technology vendors seeking government contracts, software quality will no longer be measured solely by functionality or cost. Independent verification will become an essential requirement.

Recognising That Not All Software Carries Equal Risk

One notable innovation within the framework is its risk-based classification system.

Instead of applying identical compliance requirements to every software application, NITDA categorises software into three classes according to operational impact.

Class A covers critical national infrastructure and other high-risk systems, including core banking switches, national identity management platforms and power grid control systems. These applications will undergo the highest level of security assessment, penetration testing and specialised audits conducted by top-tier accredited testing organisations.

Class B applies to enterprise-level platforms supporting significant institutional operations, while Class C encompasses lower-risk internal applications that require proportionate quality assurance measures.

This differentiated regulatory approach ensures that compliance remains both practical and risk-sensitive while protecting systems whose failure could have far-reaching national consequences.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Cybersecurity Defences

The framework arrives at a time when cyber threats continue to evolve in sophistication and frequency.

Security experts increasingly agree that many cyber incidents originate not from external attacks alone but from vulnerabilities introduced during software development.

By enforcing secure coding practices, rigorous penetration testing and independent quality assessments, the framework seeks to eliminate weaknesses before software reaches end users.

This preventive strategy complements Nigeria’s broader cybersecurity objectives by reducing the likelihood of successful attacks against government platforms and critical digital infrastructure.

Creating a New Technology Industry

Beyond regulation, the framework also represents an economic development strategy.

The licensing of independent software testing organisations is expected to stimulate an entirely new segment of Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.

Demand will grow for software quality assurance specialists, penetration testers, cybersecurity analysts, compliance experts and certification professionals.

This emerging market has the potential to generate thousands of highly skilled jobs while encouraging Nigerian professionals to obtain globally recognised certifications in software quality engineering.

Rather than relying extensively on foreign expertise, Nigeria could develop a vibrant indigenous software assurance industry capable of supporting both domestic and international markets.

Raising the Global Profile of Nigerian Software

As African technology companies increasingly compete for international contracts, software quality has become an important competitive advantage.

Global investors, multinational corporations and development partners routinely evaluate quality assurance processes before engaging software providers.

NITDA’s framework therefore extends beyond domestic regulation.

By establishing nationally recognised quality standards, Nigeria is positioning locally developed software to compete more effectively in global markets, attract foreign investment and strengthen confidence in products developed by Nigerian technology companies.

The initiative also aligns with the country’s ambition to become a regional digital innovation hub.

Building Public Confidence in Digital Government

For ordinary Nigerians, the most immediate benefits may come through improved public service delivery.

Citizens expect digital government services to be available when needed, process requests efficiently and safeguard personal information.

Reliable software means fewer system outages, reduced processing delays, stronger data protection and more dependable online services.

Ultimately, software quality becomes an important pillar of public trust.

Speaking on the significance of the framework, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi captured this broader vision.

“Quality is the foundation of digital trust. With this Framework, every software solution serving Nigerians—whether built for government or the private sector—will meet clear national standards for security, reliability and interoperability. This is how we modernise government technology and position Nigerian software to compete on the global stage.”

Although the Software Quality Assurance Framework will officially take full effect in the second quarter of 2027, NITDA is allowing stakeholders time to prepare.

The Agency plans nationwide stakeholder engagements, extensive capacity-building programmes and the accreditation of Licensed Software Testing Organisations.

An Expression of Interest will also be issued for prospective testing organisations seeking licences, giving technology firms the opportunity to strengthen their technical capabilities before the framework becomes fully operational.

This phased implementation is expected to encourage compliance while minimising disruption to ongoing technology projects.

The National Software Quality Assurance Framework is more than another government regulation. It is a statement about the future Nigeria hopes to build—a future where digital systems are secure, reliable and globally competitive.

If effectively implemented, the framework could reduce costly software failures, improve cybersecurity, strengthen public confidence in government technology, stimulate indigenous innovation and create an entirely new software quality assurance industry.

In an era where nations increasingly compete through digital capability rather than natural resources alone, software quality is no longer a technical concern reserved for programmers. It has become a strategic national asset.

For Nigeria, the launch of the Software Quality Assurance Framework may well mark the beginning of a new chapter—one in which digital trust, innovation and excellence become defining characteristics of the nation’s technology ecosystem.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding digital inclusion through strategic partnerships aimed at empowering underserved communities with digital skills and access to technology, in line with Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.

Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, made the commitment during a courtesy visit by the Executive Director of Cal-Maji Foundation, Mrs. Faith Ayuba, to the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

Represented by the Director of Digital Development Services, Mr. Oluwunmi Oladejo, Inuwa said collaboration with community-based organisations remains critical to achieving NITDA’s vision of ensuring that every Nigerian benefits from the opportunities of the digital economy.

He described the Foundation’s visit and positive feedback as a testament to the lasting impact of the Agency’s interventions across the country.

“It is always gratifying to receive feedback from communities that have benefited from our interventions. Many of these projects were implemented years ago, and it is rewarding to know they are still creating opportunities,” he said.

The NITDA boss explained that the Agency continues to monitor the performance of its intervention centres nationwide while leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen digital learning and virtual capacity-building initiatives.

According to him, NITDA’s National Digital Literacy Framework remains the cornerstone of efforts to equip children, students, artisans, farmers, professionals and other groups with the digital competencies required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

Responding to requests for additional support, Inuwa disclosed that the Agency is considering training community-based instructors to sustain digital literacy programmes at the grassroots. He encouraged the Foundation to submit a formal request, backed by evidence of activities at its digital centre, to facilitate further intervention.

He, however, acknowledged that sustaining internet connectivity across intervention centres nationwide remains a major funding challenge that requires innovative solutions and stronger collaboration among stakeholders.

Earlier, Executive Director of Cal-Maji Foundation, Mrs. Faith Ayuba, commended NITDA for its openness to partnerships and commitment to supporting impactful initiatives.

She described the Agency as one of the few government institutions that prioritises genuine impact over personal connections, noting that the Foundation focuses on improving access to education, strengthening food systems, enhancing food security and providing social protection for women and young people in hard-to-reach communities.

Ayuba revealed that the NITDA Knowledge Access Centre established at the Foundation’s community school in a border community in Kogi State has significantly transformed learning by providing students and residents with access to computers, internet connectivity and digital education.

“The ICT centre became an equaliser. Young people who ordinarily would never have had access to computers or the internet suddenly had the opportunity to acquire digital knowledge. We came back simply to say thank you because this partnership has changed lives,” she said.

She disclosed that more than 1,000 children have benefited from the Foundation’s educational programmes and presented a former student who advanced from the community school to a Nigerian university after leveraging the digital resources available at the centre.

According to her, the student’s success demonstrates the enduring impact of NITDA’s intervention in expanding educational opportunities for underserved communities.

Ayuba also appealed for deeper collaboration through the training of community instructors, upgrading of computer systems and expanded access to NITDA’s digital capacity-building programmes, stressing that rural communities must not be left behind as Nigeria embraces emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

The meeting ended with both organizations reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration, expanding digital opportunities and empowering underserved communities in support of Nigeria’s inclusive digital economy agenda.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) to advance women’s digital inclusion and strengthen Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.

The collaboration was formalised during a courtesy visit by a NAWOJ delegation, led by its National President, Comrade Aishatu Ibrahim, to the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa. The delegation introduced the agency to the forthcoming Women in Security (WINSEC) Summit and Awards 2026, an initiative aimed at promoting collaboration on security, innovation and women’s empowerment.

Represented by the Director of Stakeholders Management and Partnerships Department, Dr. Aristotle Onumo, the NITDA Director General assured the association of the agency’s active participation and support for the summit.

Inuwa described the initiative as a timely platform for promoting peacebuilding, dialogue on security and women’s inclusion, noting that these align with NITDA’s commitment to expanding digital literacy and skills among women through its National Gender Inclusive Strategy.

He stressed that beyond participating in the summit, the agency intends to build a long-term partnership with NAWOJ that would create more opportunities for women across the country to acquire digital skills.

“Inclusivity is the key to everything we do at NITDA. We clearly defined that 40 per cent of our programmes must recognise the issue of gender. We ensure that women are adequately represented and positioned to benefit greatly from the programmes that we organise in the agency,” Inuwa said.

He added that the partnership would not only enhance the digital capacity of women journalists but also provide an avenue for NITDA to engage various women’s groups nationwide in its digital literacy and human capital development programmes.

“We graciously accept to participate actively in that conference. Apart from acquiring skills among journalists themselves, partnership with NAWOJ will also serve as a platform through which we can also reach out to various women’s groups across the federation,” he added.

Earlier, NAWOJ National President Comrade Aishatu Ibrahim commended Inuwa for what she described as his visionary leadership, which has positioned NITDA as a key driver of Nigeria’s digital economy through innovative programmes and initiatives.

She explained that the Women in Security (WINSEC) Summit and Awards 2026 is designed to bring together government institutions, security agencies, technology experts, media professionals and other stakeholders to develop collaborative solutions to emerging security challenges.

According to her, the summit will also honour outstanding individuals and organisations that have demonstrated excellence in security, governance and innovation while encouraging dialogue on the role of technology in building a safer and more resilient Nigeria.

“We deeply appreciate your exemplary leadership, passion for innovation, and unwavering commitment to building a digitally empowered Nigeria. We respectfully invite the agency to partner with NAWOJ in making this landmark initiative a success,” Ibrahim said.

She expressed optimism that the collaboration would evolve into a long-term partnership focused on equipping women journalists with cutting-edge digital skills while advancing digital inclusion, innovation and human capital development across the country.

Both organisations expressed confidence that the engagement would lay the foundation for a sustainable partnership with clearly defined objectives aimed at expanding digital literacy, promoting innovation and empowering more Nigerian women through technology.

The post NITDA, NAWOJ Forge Partnership to Boost Women’s Digital Inclusion, Security Dialogue appeared first on Tech Digest News.

By James Ishaku,

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated the need for a digitally skilled public sector workforce, saying the success of government reforms and the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will depend largely on the digital capacity of civil servants.

Director General of the NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, stated this during a Digital Skills Masterclass organised by the Agency in collaboration with Meta for selected officers from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). He was represented at the event by NITDA’s Director of Digital Development Services, Olawumi Dejo.

Speaking at the event, Inuwa said Nigeria’s aspiration to build a thriving digital economy requires a public service equipped with the knowledge and competencies to embrace emerging technologies and modern governance practices.

He explained that NITDA developed the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF) to provide a standardised roadmap for digital skills development across the country, ensuring that Nigerians acquire competencies aligned with international best practices while addressing local needs.

According to him, the framework is built around six core competency areas: device and software operations, information and data literacy, digital content creation, communication and collaboration, digital safety, and problem-solving.

He noted that the framework would enhance the ability of public servants to effectively utilise digital technologies, safeguard government information, strengthen collaboration across MDAs and improve the delivery of public services.

The NITDA Director General stressed that digital transformation extends beyond the deployment of technology, insisting that meaningful and sustainable reforms can only be achieved by investing in people.

“Technology alone cannot transform institutions. Real transformation happens when people acquire the right digital skills to rethink processes, improve productivity and deliver better outcomes,” he said.

Inuwa described continuous learning as indispensable in an era of rapid technological advancement, particularly with the growing adoption of Artificial Intelligence, urging civil servants to continuously upskill and reskill to remain effective.

He also encouraged participants to serve as change agents within their organisations by transferring the knowledge gained during the masterclass to their colleagues through a train-the-trainer approach that would accelerate digital capacity development across the public sector.

The Director General disclosed that NITDA, in collaboration with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, has trained more than 53,000 civil servants in digital skills, describing the initiative as a major step towards building an AI-ready and digitally competent public service.

He assured participants that the Agency would continue to expand digital learning opportunities to equip government workers with the skills needed to support ongoing reforms, enhance service delivery and position Nigeria to maximise the opportunities presented by emerging technologies.

The Digital Skills Masterclass is part of NITDA’s broader implementation of the National Digital Literacy Framework and its commitment to strengthening the human capital required to drive Nigeria’s digital economy.

In her remarks, Meta’s Public Policy for Anglophone West Africa, Victoria Oloni, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda through its partnership with NITDA.

Oloni observed that the increasing adoption of digital tools across government from electronic salary payments to the use of messaging platforms for official communication shows that the public service is steadily transitioning from analogue to digital operations.

She, however, noted that the next phase should focus on achieving institution-wide digital transformation rather than isolated adoption of technology by individuals.

According to her, digital transformation is a continuous journey that requires sustained learning, collaboration and openness to innovation. She explained that the masterclass was designed to provide participants with practical skills for leveraging digital technologies to improve communication, efficiency and service delivery across Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

Oloni urged participants to maximise the opportunity presented by the training, emphasising that a digitally empowered workforce remains essential to building a more efficient, responsive and citizen-centred public service.

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By Naeemah Junaid,

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to adopt a coordinated and proactive approach to securing Nigeria’s government digital infrastructure against the rising wave of cyber threats.

The call was made at the opening of a two-day Cybersecurity Workshop for MDAs, themed “Securing Government Digital Infrastructure through Capacity Building,” where the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, was represented by the Assistant Director, Cybersecurity Department at NITDA, Dr. Ayodele Bakare.

Speaking at the event, Inuwa said the workshop comes at a crucial period when cyberattacks against government digital platforms have become more frequent, sophisticated and disruptive. He noted that incidents such as website defacement, ransomware attacks, data breaches and the misuse of personal information now pose serious risks to governance, public trust and national development.

He observed that government digital platforms, relied upon daily by millions of Nigerians, have increasingly become attractive targets for cybercriminals.

“We have watched websites of government organisations defaced, hijacked and quietly redirected to gambling sites. We have seen coordinated ransomware attacks force government web portals to shut down and witnessed repeated attacks on government databases leading to data exfiltration and abuse of personal data,” he said.

Highlighting the growing magnitude of the challenge, the DG referenced findings from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Cybercrime Assessment for Nigeria, which identified Nigeria as one of Africa’s three most targeted countries due to its expanding digital economy and increasing cyberattack surface. He also cited the Lloyd Cybersecurity Outlook, which estimated that cybercrime cost Nigeria more than $3 billion between 2019 and 2025.

According to him, every digital service delivered by government represents a promise of efficiency, transparency and accessibility to citizens and businesses, adding that such promises can only be fulfilled when the underlying systems are adequately secured.

He stressed that today’s cyber threats are orchestrated by highly organised and well-funded actors who exploit vulnerabilities across institutions, making inter-agency collaboration indispensable.

“A weakness in one MDA becomes a doorway into another. Our defences cannot be fragmented. Cybersecurity in government is a shared national obligation, and we are only as strong as our least protected system,” he stated.

Reaffirming NITDA’s commitment to strengthening national cyber resilience, the DG highlighted the Agency’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERRT) as the government’s first point of contact during cyber incidents. He, however, emphasised that the true value of any emergency response capability lies in preventing attacks before they occur.

He explained that effective cybersecurity requires continuous risk assessments, robust governance frameworks, policy implementation, regular awareness campaigns, technical safeguards, incident response planning and sustained capacity development.

Inuwa also underscored the importance of the human factor in cybersecurity, describing personnel as the first and most critical line of defence.

“No firewall or technical control can replace an informed, alert and security-conscious workforce. That is what we refer to as the human firewall,” he remarked.

Encouraging participants to maximise the workshop, he described it as more than a conventional training programme, but a platform for practical learning, intelligence sharing and collaborative problem-solving through discussions and real-life case studies drawn from recent cyber incidents affecting public institutions.

He further disclosed that participants would serve as the first external stakeholder group to review and provide input on NITDA’s draft Regulatory Guidelines for Government Information Security Management ahead of broader stakeholder consultations.

Urging participants to engage openly throughout the sessions, Inuwa said candid discussions on institutional cybersecurity challenges would help other agencies strengthen their own resilience against emerging threats.

“Ask difficult questions and honestly share the security concerns within your environment because your candour may help a sister agency avoid the same issue,” he advised.

Concluding his address, the DG maintained that Nigeria’s ongoing digital transformation should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a source of concern, provided the nation’s digital assets remain adequately protected.

“Nigeria’s digital future is not a threat to be feared. It is an opportunity to be secured. Securing it is precisely the duty we have gathered here to take up together,” he said.

The workshop is expected to deepen cybersecurity knowledge across MDAs, enhance institutional collaboration and strengthen Nigeria’s collective cyber resilience, in line with NITDA’s commitment to fostering a secure, trusted and resilient digital ecosystem for the country.

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