By Blessing Otobong-Gabriel
Federal government yesterday commenced a review of its Digital Public Infrastructure, DPI, with the aim of boosting efficiency and transparency in government services to align with global trends.
This initiative is part of government’s efforts to leverage technology and improve service delivery.
Speaking at a public review of the draft DPI life event and the draft technical standard for Nigerian Data Exchange, NGDX, the Director-General of National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, Kashifu Abdullahi said the key objective of DPI is to facilitate secure data exchange, promote transparency and accountability in government operations
Abdullahi, who was represented by the Director of e-Government and Digital Economy Development, Engr Salisu Kaka, said by streamlining processes and reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, DPI would enhance the speed and quality of service delivery and enable data-driven policy-making, increase accessibility and inclusivity, and promote digital economy development.
The director-general explained that DPI’s framework was designed to support critical life events, such as birth registration, healthcare, education and business registration. By leveraging DPI, government aims to provide citizens with efficient and seamless access to government services, foster economic growth and development, and enhance governance and accountability
“The federal government’s review of DPI is a step towards creating a more efficient, transparent and citizen-centric government. By harnessing the potentials of digital technology, it can improve service delivery, promote economic growth and enhance the overall quality of life for Nigerians,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of inclusivity in national activities, particularly governance, highlighting that co-creation is essential for effective governance instruments.
The draft DPI life event and Nigerian Data Exchange technical standard have been publicly available for over two months, allowing for thorough review and feedback.
He stressed that stakeholders engagement is vital in the rulemaking process, enabling the collection of valuable insights from the public.
This collaborative approach ensures the development of quality documents that reflect the needs, interests and challenges of all stakeholders.
“By working together, attendees can shape documents that are not only effective, but also widely adopted and implemented,” he said he started.
Also, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, represented by the Director of e-Government, Johnson Bareyei appreciated NITDA for organising the public review of the DPI framework and technical standards for the Nigerian Data Exchange, while commending partners, stakeholders and experts who have contributed to shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
He noted that DPI is a development enabler for Nigeria, driving service delivery, financial inclusion, job creation and transparency in governance.
The minister cited examples of successful DPI implementation in countries like India, Finland, etc, demonstrating its transformative power in changing how societies function and governments serve their citizens.
He stressed that success in DPI implementation depends on having clear standards and frameworks that ensure security, interoperability, trust and sustainability.
The minister emphasized the importance of collective commitment from all stakeholders, including federal and state governments, private sector, civil society and citizens, in building a DPI ecosystem that delivers real value to Nigerians.
He urged stakeholders to engage fully in the review process, noting that the outcome would lay the foundation for a Nigeria where digital trust, innovation and efficiency define governance, business and daily life.
