FG seeks public input on new digital infrastructure standards

By Blessing Emmanuel

The Federal Government is inviting Nigerians from all walks of life to help shape the future of the nation’s digital landscape by providing feedback on a newly released draft of technical standards for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).

This initiative goes beyond technology alone. It is about ensuring that digital services are secure, user-friendly and interoperable across both government and private sector platforms, so that they serve the real needs of everyday Nigerians.

The draft was unveiled by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), which explained that the long-term aim is to create a digital ecosystem that enhances service delivery, promotes accountability, safeguards personal data and drives innovation. Crucially, NITDA is not approaching the process in isolation. It is actively seeking the views of citizens, businesses, technology professionals, academics and civil society organisations.

“This is not just a government blueprint—it is a citizen-driven approach,” said Mrs Hadiza Umar, spokesperson for NITDA. “We are calling on all Nigerians to get involved in helping to shape the standards that will guide our digital future.”

The document outlines how key digital services—such as national identification systems, digital payments and data-sharing platforms—should be developed and integrated. It places strong emphasis on security, accessibility and inclusiveness, particularly for people in rural or underserved communities.

Among the core proposals in the draft are plans to ensure seamless interoperability between platforms, robust data protection and privacy safeguards, clear procedures for system certification, and the promotion of innovation through open-source technologies.

The release of the draft follows the launch of Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure Framework on 4 March 2025, and the establishment of a new coordinating office to oversee the national rollout of digital infrastructure.

NITDA is encouraging all stakeholders to review the draft and submit comments by 8 May 2025. The full document is available for download via the agency’s official website.

By opening up the consultation process, the government hopes to build a truly inclusive digital foundation—one that reflects the voices and needs of the Nigerian people.