The draft Technical Standards for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is now available for public review, and the National Information Technology Development Agency is actively seeking feedback on this important document.
According to a press release signed by the Director, Corporate Communications & Media Relations, NITDA, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, this landmark step underscores the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, secure, and interoperable digital ecosystem that will drive economic growth, enhance public service delivery, and empower citizens across the nation.
“The public may recall that on the 4th of March 2025, the federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, released the Digital Public Infrastructure Framework. The DPI framework presents a platform for reforming public service delivery, utilizing a whole-of-government approach, which includes the opportunity for the private sector to build and deliver cross-cutting services that will enhance citizens’ well-being and access to services.
“The Framework also establishes the Nigerian Digital Public Infrastructure Centre (Ng-DPIC) as the program implementation office to coordinate the national effort to educate, support research, and deliver appropriate knowledge management for developing Nigeria’s DPI. The aim is to meaningfully engage in developing a robust DPI-driven architecture that benefits society.
“In furtherance of the above, this draft of the Technical Standards for DPI provides a structured approach for developing and deploying Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). They define the essential technical requirements and proven techniques to ensure interoperability, security, and efficiency across digital services. By establishing clear guides, these standards support the seamless integration of DPI components, fostering a secure, scalable, and resilient digital ecosystem in Nigeria.
“Furthermore, it outlines the structure for integrating sectorial DPIs, including but not limited to digital identity systems, payment platforms, and data exchange frameworks. It aims to establish clear guidelines for interoperability, data protection, cybersecurity, and the participation of both public and private sector stakeholders in building digital public goods (DPGs), utilising these critical digital foundations.
“Extensive research, international best practices, and consultations with various stakeholders have guided the development of this draft of technical standards. It reflects the government’s vision to leverage the power of digital technologies to achieve its national development objectives and improve the lives of all Nigerians.
Key objectives of the draft Digital Public Infrastructure Regulation include:
1. Enhance Interoperability: Ensure seamless communication across platforms, agencies, and services
2. Ensure Data Security and Privacy: Protect sensitive information while complying with local and international regulations
3. Promote Accessibility and Usability: Create inclusive systems that are easy to navigate and cater to all citizens, including marginalised groups.
4. Define Performance Benchmarks: Establish metrics to ensure systems are reliable, scalable, and efficient.
5. Foster Governance and Compliance: Provide clear accountability, transparency, and regulatory alignment rules
6. Encourage Innovation: Facilitate the adoption of open-source technologies while adhering to proper usage guidelines.
7. Standardise Testing Practices: Ensure consistent validation of systems to meet defined technical and user requirements.
“The federal government recognises the crucial role of public input in shaping effective and impactful regulations. Therefore, it invites all stakeholders, including citizens, businesses, civil society organisations, academia, and international partners, to review the draft regulation and provide valuable feedback.
“The draft Technical Standards for Digital Public Infrastructure Regulation is available for review on the website of [Insert]. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their comments and suggestions in writing to regulations@nitda.gov.ng by May 8, 2025.
“Following the public consultation period, the agency will carefully consider all feedback received before finalising and implementing the Digital Public Infrastructure Regulation.
“This initiative represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey. The federal government believes that a well-defined and effectively implemented DPI framework will be instrumental in unlocking the full potential of the digital economy and achieving sustainable and inclusive development for all Nigerians.
