By Chinenye Anuforo
Nigeria’s digital landscape is set for a significant upgrade as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) join forces to implement National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
This collaboration aims to strengthen cybersecurity, enhance digital trust and streamline data exchange across the country.
Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasised the importance of this partnership during a working visit to his counterpart, NIMC Director General, Bisoye Coker-Odusote. The collaboration will focus on building secure data exchange protocols (DPI stacks) and fostering partnerships to transform the national identity system. This initiative is expected to improve digital identity management, create a more secure payment ecosystem and facilitate seamless data exchange within Nigeria.
Inuwa highlighted NITDA’s commitment to innovation by outlining their recently revamped Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0). This plan emphasises eight key pillars, including fostering digital literacy, building a robust technology research ecosystem, strengthening cybersecurity, and promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure.
NIMC Director General Coker-Odusote echoed the importance of collaboration, stating that “no institutions can implement all its policies and programs in isolation.” She further acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive on data integration and harmonisation across government ministries and the use of PKI to drive national growth.
A 12-member committee has been established to start this collaborative effort. This committee is tasked with harmonising initiatives and delivering a comprehensive implementation report within the coming weeks.
Overall, this partnership between NITDA and NIMC signifies a positive step towards a more secure and streamlined digital environment in Nigeria.