NITDA pushes for new IT regulations, seeks public input

The National Information Technology Development Agency has called for stakeholder input on several draft guidelines aimed at regulating IT projects and strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

The country’s technology agency outlined four key documents open for public review, including guidelines for licensing IT projects, clearance compliance assurance firms, regulatory guidelines for electronic invoicing, and standards for software development and testing.

This announcement was made on Friday by the Director of Communications and Media Relations at NITDA, Mrs Hadiza Umar.

By incorporating diverse perspectives, NITDA noted that it aims to ensure the guidelines meet the needs of the IT industry while supporting the growth of a vibrant digital economy in Nigeria.

The agency also proposed amendments to its 2018 guidelines for clearing IT projects within Federal Public Institutions.

According to NITDA, the Guidelines for Licensing IT Projects Clearance Compliance Assurance Firms 2024 aim to professionalise the clearance process for IT projects in federal institutions, promoting better project design and evaluation.

“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.”

The regulatory guidelines for electronic invoicing, NITDA stated, will improve tax compliance and efficiency through e-government automation, preparing 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.

The guidelines for software development, NITDA added, are intended to ensure that software used by government agencies meets quality, security, and operational standards, reducing operational risks and improving 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 encouraged public participation in the consultation process and noted that stakeholders have until 26 November to submit feedback via email to [email protected].