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Director General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi highlights progress on national cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity policy, and performance management reforms.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation and enhance policy alignment across the sector.
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NITDA Director General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi made the pledge during a courtesy visit by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Nadungu Gagare, to NITDA’s headquarters.
Abdullahi described the engagement as a significant demonstration of the Ministry’s support and leadership, adding that sustained collaboration between both institutions is essential to delivering Nigeria’s digital economy agenda.
Focus on National Cloud and Cybersecurity Policies
Abdullahi highlighted key policy areas requiring continued collaboration, including the development of a national sovereign cloud infrastructure and a comprehensive cybersecurity policy framework.
“We are awaiting the Ministry’s guidance on how to move forward, particularly on the national cloud and cybersecurity policies,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of clear institutional boundaries and mutual respect in enhancing operational effectiveness and inter-agency cooperation.
The Director General recalled previous engagements with the Ministry, including a familiarisation visit during which NITDA shared its strategic roadmap and ongoing initiatives. He noted that continuous dialogue has strengthened alignment between both institutions.
NITDA’s Performance Management System Leadership
Abdullahi revealed that NITDA has been at the forefront of implementing the Performance Management System (PMS), having introduced the framework internally several years before its adoption across the Federal Civil Service.
“We started PMS about four years ago. What we have now at the national level actually originated from our internal reforms,” he disclosed.
He added that initiatives such as Project NEXT have strengthened accountability, role clarity, and measurable outcomes across the Agency.
“If you perform well, you are rewarded. If not, there are consequences. Even promotions are tied to performance,” Abdullahi said.
From Regulator to Ecosystem Enabler
The Director General further highlighted NITDA’s transformation from a traditional regulatory institution into a dynamic ecosystem enabler focused on innovation, inclusion, and national development.
“We are building a high-velocity organisation—one that is agile, inclusive, and driven by innovation,” he explained, noting that the Agency is embracing a more flexible and entrepreneurial culture that empowers staff to contribute ideas and drive institutional growth.
Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Partnership
In his remarks, Permanent Secretary Nadungu Gagare reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with its agencies, describing partnership as fundamental to achieving sustainable progress in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.
“If there is no partnership, there is nothing that can be achieved. But with partnership and collaboration, a lot can be accomplished, and that is exactly what we are seeing now,” Gagare stated.
Gagare explained that the visit forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing engagement with agencies under its supervision to strengthen policy coordination, assess progress, and address operational challenges requiring higher-level intervention.
Commendation for NITDA’s Role in Digital Innovation
The Permanent Secretary commended NITDA’s management and staff for their dedication to advancing Nigeria’s digital innovation ecosystem. He acknowledged the Agency’s contributions to digital literacy, innovation, cybersecurity awareness, and the creation of opportunities for startups and young innovators.
“NITDA has continued to play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s digital future through the promotion of information technology development, digital literacy, innovation, and regulatory standards,” Gagare said.
Emphasis on Policy Coherence and Civil Service Reforms
Gagare stressed the importance of policy coherence among institutions within the Ministry, noting that agency mandates are interconnected and must be implemented seamlessly.
“Your mandates are inputs into one another. That is why we need tight collaboration so implementation can go smoothly,” he said, while assuring NITDA of the Ministry’s continued guidance and institutional support.
He also highlighted ongoing Federal Civil Service reforms, particularly the adoption of the Performance Management System, which promotes accountability, clear target-setting, and measurable performance outcomes.
“When everything needed for performance is made available and targets are not met, consequence management follows. Where targets are exceeded, there is reward. This is how we drive performance in the service,” he noted.
Visit showcases shared commitment of both FMCIDE and NITDA
The visit showcases the shared commitment of both FMCIDE and NITDA to advancing Nigeria’s digital economy through stronger collaboration, innovation, and effective governance. The strengthened partnership is expected to play a critical role in delivering inclusive growth, improved service delivery, and sustainable national development.
