1 week Ago By Ladi Patrick-Okwoli
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has unveiled the draft of the Technical Standards for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and is seeking input from stakeholders to help refine and strengthen the document for better enforcement and effectiveness. The Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) consists of digital systems that empower countries to provide economic opportunities and deliver social services in a safe and efficient manner. Hadiza Umar, the Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, made the call in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
Read also: NITDA, Doballi ink deal to boost job placement for Nigerian tech talent Umar explained that the initiative was part of the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, secure digital ecosystem that drives economic growth, ensures seamless public service delivery, and empowers citizens. She highlighted that on March 4, the Federal Government released the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) framework, which aims to reform public service delivery and adopt a whole-of-government approach. The framework also provides a platform for the private sector to design and deliver cross-cutting services that enhance citizens’ well-being and simplify service access.
Umar noted that the framework establishes the Nigerian Digital Public Infrastructure Centre (Ng-DPIC) as the central office responsible for implementing the program. The center will coordinate national efforts to educate, support research, and manage knowledge crucial for developing Nigeria’s DPI. Umar stated that the draft Technical Standards for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) offers a structured approach for the development and deployment of Nigeria’s DPI.
Read also: Jigawa partners NITDA to upskill Almajiri, out-of-school children digitally She explained, “The draft defines essential technical requirements and proven techniques to ensure interoperability, security, and efficiency across digital services. By establishing clear guidelines, these standards will support the seamless integration of DPI components, fostering a secure, scalable, and resilient digital ecosystem in Nigeria.” She emphasised that the Federal Government recognizes the importance of public input in shaping effective regulations and invites all stakeholders to review the draft and provide valuable feedback.
Umar also pointed out that the draft outlines the framework for integrating sectorial DPIs, including but not limited to digital identity systems, payment platforms, and data exchange frameworks. It establishes guidelines for interoperability, data protection, cybersecurity, and the involvement of both public and private sector stakeholders in the development of digital public goods (DPGs). The draft, she noted, is based on extensive research and aligns with global best practices, having been developed in consultation with various stakeholders.
It reflects the government’s vision to harness digital technologies to achieve national development goals and improve the lives of Nigerians. Key objectives of the draft include enhanced interoperability between government institutions and platforms, assured data security and privacy, and the promotion of accessibility and usability. Read also: NITDA warns Nigerians about malware stealing banking details Interoperability refers to the ability of software systems, devices, and applications to connect and communicate with one another seamlessly, without requiring effort from the end user.
Other goals of the DPI, when adopted, include defining performance benchmarks, promoting governance and compliance, and encouraging innovation. Umar confirmed that the DPI draft is available for review at [email protected] , and stakeholders can submit their feedback through the same address. She assured that all feedback would be carefully considered before finalising and implementing the DPI regulations.
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