FG To Deploy Emerging Technologies Across MDAs

FG To Deploy Emerging Technologies Across MDAs

The Federal Government has announced plans to deploy emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Blockchain, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance governance and service delivery.

This was disclosed by the Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Arabi, during the 2025 ITGOV Conference held in Lagos. The event was organized by Tranter IT in collaboration with global IT solutions leader ManageEngine.

Represented by the BPSR Director of Strategy, Innovation, and Research, Mr. Sulola Johnson, Dr. Arabi said the Bureau is currently working with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to integrate Distributed Ledger Technologies into the operations of MDAs.

“The aim is simple but powerful: simplify routine tasks, secure sensitive data, and optimize resource allocation for more effective service delivery,” he said.

Highlighting past investments in digital solutions, Dr. Arabi noted that the government has implemented several key automation platforms over the past decade, including:

The Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS)

The Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS)

The Treasury Single Account (TSA)

The Bank Verification Number (BVN) integration

According to him, these platforms have collectively saved the government billions of naira in leakages and have bolstered transparency and accountability across public institutions.

“Yet, as global trends shift towards more integrated and intelligent automation, we must now deepen our focus,” he said.

Dr. Arabi added, has been instrumental in fostering digital collaboration across agencies. Notably, it has supported the integration of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database as a unified identity verification platform and backed the use of the National Identification Number (NIN) in JAMB’s UTME registration process.

Recognizing that technology alone cannot drive transformation, Dr. Arabi stressed the need to invest in human capital. To this end, the Bureau plans to train 500,000 public servants in digital literacy and emerging technologies to ensure the long-term sustainability of these efforts.

Delivering the keynote address at the conference, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, represented by his Technical Assistant, Dr. Femi Adeluyi, said that digital transformation is no longer optional for Nigeria.

Drawing from global success stories in Estonia, South Korea, and the UAE, he advocated for inclusive, data-driven governance supported by robust digital infrastructure, cloud adoption, analytics, and cybersecurity.

He also highlighted NITDA’s ongoing implementation of Digital Transformation Plans (DTPs) across MDAs, aligned with the Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 (SRAP 2023–2027), aimed at modernizing governance in Nigeria.

Speaking earlier, Executive Director of the Tranter Group, Melanie Ayoola, explained that the conference was convened to explore ways in which intelligent IT management can improve government performance and outcomes. She affirmed Tranter’s and ManageEngine’s commitment to supporting a digitally robust public sector in Nigeria.

Country Manager for ManageEngine Nigeria and Head of West Africa Operations, Srinivasan Rajasekar, echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized that digital transformation enhances transparency, operational efficiency, and citizen satisfaction and pledged the companies’ support for Nigeria’s digital evolution.