The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called on Nigerian public institutions to prioritise homegrown digital solutions and adopt a “Nigeria First” approach when procuring technology.
Speaking at the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Port Harcourt, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi said public procurement can play a critical role in strengthening institutions, supporting local technology companies and building Nigeria’s digital economy.
NITDA disclosed that between July 2023 and July 2026, it reviewed 1,092 IT project proposals from 326 ministries, departments and agencies, with a combined value exceeding ₦4.24 trillion. Of these, 1,056 projects valued at ₦3.84 trillion were cleared.
The agency is also strengthening its IT Project Clearance Framework and software assurance protocols to ensure government technology projects meet required standards and deliver measurable outcomes.
According to NITDA, the focus should go beyond simply acquiring more technology. Public institutions must ensure that digital solutions address Nigeria’s specific needs, leverage local expertise and deliver sustainable national value.
