A press statement released recently by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), an arm of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, revealed the Federal Government’s plans to initiate an all-encompassing evaluation of the regulations guiding the provision of IT services to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. Hadiza Umar, the Head of Corporate Affairs and External Relations at NITDA, emphasized the importance of the review, which aimed at optimizing the process, maintaining impeccable standards of professionalism in IT services, and fostering the development of indigenous IT firms.
To support the development of indigenous IT companies in accordance with a presidential executive order, the government introduced a registration procedure in 2018. Unfortunately, the implementation of this process was poorly executed. These set of guidelines indicated that only indigenous applicants would be eligible for registration and that at least one of their top-level executives must be registered with the Computer Professionals of Nigeria. Due to its lack of effectiveness, the spokesperson for NITDA announced that they will be conducting an evaluation of the guidelines.
Priority has been placed on bolstering local IT service provision.
This review aims to align with international trends, guaranteeing the engagement of capable vendors for IT service provision. Furthermore, she pointed out that the implementation of these guidelines will not only open up new avenues for Nigerian companies to offer a wider range of digital services but also enhance the overall business ecosystem for IT service providers, simplifying their operations and improving efficiency. Ever since the guidelines were released, the agency has recognized the necessity of enhancing registration procedures to increase efficiency.
Moreover, a priority has been placed on bolstering local IT service provision and ensuring that capable vendors are contracted for delivering IT services to the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the Federal Government of Nigeria. She observed that NITDA aims to join forces with all concerned parties for the purpose of guaranteeing that Nigerians reap the advantages of utilizing Information Technology, in order to improve and streamline their everyday tasks, particularly when it comes to government and institutional services.
Nigerian companies will be granted more digital service.
This action corresponds with the current administration’s commitment to secure collective success through effectiveness and ingenuity. By conducting a comprehensive review, the guidelines will undergo amendments facilitating Nigerian companies to offer a wider array of digital services. Simultaneously, this will enhance the convenience for IT service providers engaged in business activities. With this forthcoming review, Nigerian companies will be granted more digital service opportunities and IT service providers will experience a smoother business environment. This revision will also lead to amendments in the guidelines, aiming to enhance the ease of doing business and expand the digital services provided within Nigeria.
As per the National Information Technology Development Agency Act of 2007, NITDA has been granted authority under Section 6 to oversee and foster the advancement of Information Technology throughout Nigeria. This includes the establishment of IT structures, regulations, policies, standards, and guidelines in all sectors. Ensuring the registration and certification of every indigenous IT service provider/contractor will guarantee the government receives high-quality and enduring IT projects. It will also enhance professionalism within IT services and foster the growth of top-notch indigenous IT companies, which is crucial for Nigeria’s IT advancement.
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The imminent review of the guidelines is set to simplify the registration procedure for native IT service providers. This will ensure that high-caliber IT projects are delivered to the federal government while maintaining utmost professionalism in IT services. Moreover, it will foster the development of local IT firms, all while strictly complying with pertinent Presidential Executive Orders. The agency seeks public participation, feedback, and suggestions regarding the proposed amendments, with window to contribute will be available until Sunday, 21st January 2024. Any interested individuals or groups can express their views by following this link.
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NITDA: Website
