NITDA, FMCIDE Chart New Path On Innovation, Digital Economy Implementation
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) have renewed commitments to deepen institutional collaboration aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda and improving policy coordination across the sector.
Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, gave the assurance on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Nadungu Gagare, to the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Inuwa described the visit as a clear indication of the Ministry’s continued support for NITDA’s reform-driven initiatives, noting that stronger collaboration between both institutions remains central to achieving the Federal Government’s digital economy objectives.
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He explained that sustained engagement between the Ministry and its agencies has already improved policy alignment, particularly through prior consultations in which NITDA presented its strategic roadmap and key ongoing projects.
According to him, critical national initiatives such as the proposed sovereign cloud infrastructure and a comprehensive cybersecurity framework require closer inter-agency coordination for effective delivery.
“We are awaiting further guidance from the Ministry on how to proceed, especially regarding the national cloud and cybersecurity policy frameworks,” Inuwa said, adding that clarity in roles and mutual respect among institutions remain vital for effective implementation.
The NITDA boss also stressed the Agency’s internal reforms, disclosing that it had adopted the Performance Management System (PMS) years before its nationwide implementation in the Federal Civil Service.
He noted that the Agency’s internal reforms, including Project NEXT, had strengthened accountability, improved performance tracking, and ensured that staff output is tied to measurable results.
“In NITDA, performance is central. Rewards and consequences are tied to delivery, and even promotion is based on measurable output,” he said.
Inuwa further stated that NITDA has transitioned from a conventional regulatory institution into a more innovative and agile ecosystem enabler, focused on driving digital inclusion and fostering a culture of creativity and enterprise.
“We are deliberately building an organisation that is fast-moving, innovative, and inclusive—one that empowers staff to contribute meaningfully to national development,” he added.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of FMCIDE, Nadungu Gagare, said the Ministry is intensifying collaboration with agencies under its supervision to ensure stronger policy coherence and improved service delivery in the digital economy sector.
He noted that the visit formed part of a broader engagement strategy to assess progress, strengthen coordination, and address implementation challenges affecting key national initiatives.
Gagare commended NITDA’s role in advancing Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, particularly in digital literacy, innovation development, cybersecurity awareness, and support for startups and young innovators.
“NITDA remains a critical pillar in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey, especially in promoting ICT development, innovation, and regulatory standards,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of alignment among agencies, stressing that their mandates are interconnected and must be implemented in a coordinated manner to achieve maximum impact.
The Permanent Secretary further outlined ongoing reforms in the Federal Civil Service, noting that the Performance Management System is designed to ensure accountability, clear targets, and consequence-based evaluation.
“Where targets are met or exceeded, there is reward. Where they are not met, consequences apply. That is how we improve efficiency in the system,” he said.
