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NITDA Reaffirms Support for Sub-National Digital Transformation
In line with the economic reform, digital innovation and governance priorities of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reiterated its commitment to supporting sub-national governments in building integrated, data-driven systems that enhance public service delivery and foster sustainable economic growth.
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This commitment was reinforced at the Future Enterprise and Data Architecture of Abia State workshop themed “One Citizen, One Identity: Unlocking Data-Driven Governance.” The high-level engagement convened policymakers, technocrats and development partners to outline a pathway toward a unified, interoperable and citizen-centric digital public sector.
Abia State Charts Path to Unified Digital Governance
The workshop was organised by the Abia State Ministry of Budget and Planning. It was declared open by Alex Otti, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu. Discussions focused on strengthening interoperability among Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to boost revenue generation, eliminate duplication and improve service delivery across the state.
Participants examined how a unified digital architecture can support more efficient governance, improved planning and better outcomes for citizens.
Collaboration Identified as Cornerstone of Digital Transformation
Speaking during a panel session titled “Breaking Silos, Building One Government,” Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of NITDA, stressed that collaboration is central to successful digital transformation. He was represented by the Agency’s Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnership, Dr Aristotle Onumo.
“If you want to take advantage of collective intelligence, partnership is the key. If you want to succeed in building a unified government system, collaboration is the way to go,” he said.
The NITDA boss emphasised that digital transformation goes beyond technology deployment to include people, culture and institutional mindset. He warned that entrenched silos and resistance to change can derail even the most advanced systems.
Digital Literacy as Foundation for One-Government Systems
Highlighting NITDA’s strategic priorities, Abdullahi noted that digital literacy remains a foundational pillar of national development. He disclosed that the Agency is targeting 70 per cent digital literacy nationwide through structured interventions, including plans to train 30 million Nigerians across formal and informal sectors using digital learning platforms and community-based partnerships.
He added that digital education is being integrated into school curricula at all levels. Ccivil servants across the public service are undergoing digital capacity development programmes to prepare institutions for interoperable governance.
Interoperability Key to ‘One Citizen, One Identity’
On the theme of interoperability, Abdullahi described it as a non-negotiable requirement for data integrity, efficiency and innovation in governance. He revealed that NITDA is advancing a national interoperability framework and rolling out Enterprise Architecture initiatives across government institutions.
“Data generated in one agency should be accessible and usable by another in a consistent and secure format. That is how you build one government, not multiple disconnected systems,” he explained.
According to him, a robust interoperability framework would not only improve internal efficiency but also create opportunities for startups and innovators to build solutions using structured public data.
Abia Poised to Become National Digital Reference Point
Abdullahi commending Abia State’s leadership for its vision. He said effective implementation of the proposed architecture could position the state as a national benchmark for digital innovation.
“If even 80 per cent of what has been presented here is achieved, Abia will not only lead among states but become a national reference point for digital governance,” he stated.
The workshop concluded with renewed calls for stronger federal–state collaboration, and policy alignment. It also emphasised the need for sustained investment in digital capacity. This will be neccessary to translate the “One Citizen, One Identity” vision into tangible socio-economic benefits.
