Laying the foundation for a digital Nigeria
Nigeria is entering a decisive phase in its digital transformation journey. By early 2026, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will introduce Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and the Nigerian Data Exchange (NGDX). These platforms are designed to streamline governance, unify data processes, and drive economic growth across multiple sectors.
The announcement was made during the Digital Public Infrastructure Live Event in Abuja. The event carried the theme Advancing Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure through Standards, Data Exchange and e-Government Transformation. Regulators, state governments, and private sector leaders came together to shape a future that promises inclusive and secure systems for service delivery.
Dr Salisu Kaka, Director of E-Government and Digital Economy at NITDA, explained that the groundwork has already been laid through national identity systems and digital payment platforms. The missing link, according to him, is the data exchange framework which is expected to be ready before the close of 2025.
He added that once the framework is in place, use cases will begin to roll out across key sectors. Kaka also urged state governments to align with national standards to ensure seamless adoption. “When states model the national framework, Nigeria can achieve a unified 360-degree view of data exchange that supports all-of-government processes,” he said.
Unlocking opportunities in digital services
The transition to DPI is expected to unlock opportunities that go beyond government services. One of the strongest voices at the event came from Mr Gabriel Oladapo, Director of Digital Transformation at the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST).
He revealed that NIPOST is already repositioning itself for the new era. Traditional post office boxes are being replaced with smart digital lockers, while a national addressing system is being introduced through digital postcodes. Post offices are also evolving into financial service hubs, where Nigerians can now carry out local transactions and even send international remittances.
These developments signal how DPI will ripple into multiple industries, transforming how citizens interact with essential services.
Trust and data protection at the core
No digital system can succeed without public trust. Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), emphasised that the Nigeria Data Protection Act provides the legal backbone for this trust.
The Act guarantees the rights of citizens, places accountability on data controllers, and empowers regulators to act when breaches occur. According to Olatunji, even the most sophisticated technology will struggle without trust. Citizens must be assured that their personal information is secure before they fully embrace DPI and NGDX.
Bridging the connectivity gap
The success of digital systems depends on connectivity. Mr Ikechukwu Amalu, Deputy General Manager at Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), explained how satellite communication will extend services to underserved and rural communities. He stressed that there are still areas without access to terrestrial networks, and satellites will be critical in bridging this gap.
Ending the burden of repeated data submissions
For years, Nigerians have had to submit the same data to different government agencies. From national identity registration to driver’s licences, SIM card activation, BVN, and international passports, the repetition has been costly and frustrating.
NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, has previously stated that the NGDX will eliminate this burden. Citizens will no longer need to resubmit the same information repeatedly. Instead, authorised agencies will be able to securely access and share records through the unified exchange.
This single move promises to transform government efficiency while improving citizen experience.
Conclusion
The rollout of DPI and NGDX marks more than a technical shift. It signals the dawn of a digital-first Nigeria where governance, business, and daily life will increasingly rely on secure and interconnected systems. With the framework set to be finalised in 2025, the countdown to 2026 may well be the most pivotal chapter in Nigeria’s digital journey.
