NITDA Introduces Digital Competence Framework to Curb Brain Drain
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has introduced a Digital Competence Framework and Career Progression Model to strengthen ICT capacity and retain skilled professionals within Nigeria’s civil service.
INCNews247 learnt the initiative aims to make public service roles more attractive and professionally rewarding.
NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, stated that the move is part of broader efforts to curb the rising wave of brain drain affecting Nigeria’s public sector.
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Inuwa made the remarks during the maiden edition of the International Civil Service Conference organised by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in Abuja with the theme “Rejuvenate, Innovate & Accelerate!”, at a session titled “Digital Transformation: Digital Skills for Civil Servants – Capacity Gaps and Future Readiness”.
Represented by Dr. Ahmed Tambawal, Acting Director of the Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Department, Inuwa noted that the framework, developed in collaboration with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, provides structured career pathways and access to globally recognised certifications, enabling civil servants to grow professionally while contributing to Nigeria’s digital transformation.
NITDA has also launched a Digital Champions Programme in partnership with the Office of the Head of Service.
The initiative identifies top digital talents across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and equips them with specialised training to lead innovation within their respective organisations.
It comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with a mass exodus of skilled professionals, commonly referred to as the “Japa” trend.
By creating a more dynamic and rewarding work environment for ICT professionals, NITDA aims to reverse this trend and build a competent, future-ready public service.
“We are committed to developing a digital civil service that retains talent, encourages growth, and drives national development,” Inuwa stated.
The framework and programme are expected to enhance the capacity of civil servants to drive digital transformation and improve service delivery.
Other speakers at the session include PS Faruk Yabo Yusuf (lead speaker), Kevin Cunnington and Wumi Oghoetuoma-Jolomi.
The discussions were also centred around the rapidly evolving government landscape, driven by the imperative of digital transformation.
This involves not only adopting new technologies but fundamentally reimagining how governments operate, interact with citizens, and deliver services.
