The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called for a strategic pivot in Nigeria’s public sector tech deployment, emphasizing trust, transparency and institutional accountability as foundational pillars of effective digital governance
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called for a major shift in Nigeria’s digital strategy, stressing that official policy must move beyond simply adopting new tools to actively governing how automated systems operate.
Speaking at the Multi-Stakeholder Coordinating Group meeting on Digital Governance in Abuja, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa emphasized that long-term digital growth depends on establishing clear trust, transparency, equity and public accountability.
In a message delivered by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, the agency highlighted that technology alone cannot transform public services unless supported by clear oversight.
Addressing the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence across the public sector, NITDA raised critical questions regarding administrative responsibility when automated systems error or exclude citizens.
Using the example of automated government grant disbursements, the agency pointed out that public institutions must clearly state who approves AI models, what data sets train those systems and how final distribution choices are reached. To protect public interest, citizens must also have access to practical channels to challenge automated decisions they believe are incorrect or unfair.
Equating digital governance to the “steering wheel, traffic rules and brakes” of technological progress, NITDA noted that proper safeguards prevent technological deployment from outpacing consumer protection.
Key priorities outlined during the session include safeguarding data privacy without stalling local innovation, ensuring transparency in algorithmic decision-making and extending digital access to rural communities alongside urban centers.
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NITDA reiterated that government agencies cannot establish an inclusive digital ecosystem in isolation.
Achieving a secure and equitable digital environment requires continuous collaboration among state institutions, technology firms, civil society groups, academic institutions and everyday citizens. By coordinating across these sectors, organizers aim to build a responsive governance structure that protects public rights while supporting national innovation.
