ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has invited stakeholders to review and provide input on several draft guidelines aimed at regulating IT projects and enhancing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
The agency presented four key documents for public feedback: guidelines for licensing IT projects, compliance assurance firms, regulatory guidelines for electronic invoicing, and standards for software development and testing.
The announcement was made on Friday by NITDA’s Director of Communications and Media Relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar.
NITDA stated that by incorporating a range of perspectives, it seeks to create guidelines that effectively address the needs of the IT industry and foster a thriving digital economy in Nigeria.
The agency also proposed updates to its 2018 guidelines for IT project clearance within Federal Public Institutions.
NITDA added that the 2024 Guidelines for Licensing IT Project Clearance Compliance Assurance Firms are intended to professionalize the clearance process for IT projects in federal institutions, enhancing project design and evaluation standards.
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“The instrument will regulate and professionalise the clearance of IT projects, ensuring that FPIs’ IT projects and initiatives are effectively conceptualised, designed, evaluated, and compliant with relevant Federal Government rules and standards, in line with the Federal Government’s digital infrastructure goals and the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
NITDA stated that the regulatory guidelines for electronic invoicing will enhance tax compliance and efficiency by automating e-government processes, positioning Nigeria for global digital commerce.
“The invoicing is designed to promote transparency and deepen the use of technology for e-government automation, as well as support the fiscal development of Nigeria through prudent administration of government revenue,” the agency stated.
NITDA added that the software development guidelines are designed to ensure that software used by government agencies meets quality, security, and operational standards, thereby reducing risks and enhancing service delivery.
“The objectives of the guideline are to ensure that software is fit-for-purpose, meeting functional and non-functional requirements, and protecting government institutions from operational risks through security, reliability, and performance standards.”
NITDA urged public participation in the consultation process, stating that stakeholders have until November 26 to submit their feedback via email at regulations@nitda.gov.ng.