National Policy for Information Technology (IT Policy 2001, updated under NDEPS 2020 to 2030)

What Is This Policy?

The National Policy for the Development of ICT sets out Nigeria's strategy for using information and communications technology as an instrument for economic development, government efficiency, and social transformation. It guides public and private investment in ICT infrastructure, software development, digital skills, and technology-enabled public services.

Who Does It Target?

ICT companies, startups, software developers, and technology investors operating in Nigeria Government agencies digitising their services and internal operations Educational institutions building ICT curricula and producing technology graduates Citizens and businesses seeking access to digital public services

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Position Nigeria as Africa's leading digital economy and a top-30 global ICT hub Drive e-government adoption, reducing physical queues and corruption in public service delivery Grow Nigeria's ICT sector contribution to GDP from approximately 18% to 25% by 2025 Build a pipeline of locally trained ICT talent capable of developing globally competitive products and services

Key Features

NITDA as IT Regulator: National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is the statutory body for implementing IT policy, regulating data protection, and building digital capacity Government Digital Transformation: All MDAs required to adopt e-government platforms; GIFMIS, IPPIS, TSA, and BVN represent major digitisation milestones Local Content in ICT: Targets 60% local software procurement by government agencies; supports indigenous ICT companies through government offtake agreements Digital Inclusion Mandate: Programmes to connect schools, hospitals, and rural communities to the internet through NITDA, NCC's USPF, and state governments Tech Innovation Hubs: NITDA supports over 25 technology innovation hubs and incubators across the country, including Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt Data Protection Regulation: NITDA administers the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, requiring businesses to appoint data protection compliance organisations and protect user data

Current Status

The policy is active and being implemented, with updates under NDEPS 2020 to 2030 guiding current ICT strategies.

Legal Framework

The National IT Policy operates under the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Act 2007, the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, and the National Broadband Plan. It is supported by the Digital Economy Policy and Strategy 2020, the Data Protection Act 2023, and aligns with the African Union's Digital Transformation Strategy.