The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled plans to implement cutting-edge technologies—including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Blockchain, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA)—across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to strengthen governance and service delivery.

This development was announced by Dr. Dasuki Arabi, Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), during the 2025 ITGOV Conference hosted by Tranter IT in partnership with global IT leader, ManageEngine. Represented by Mr. Sulola Johnson, BPSR’s Director of Strategy, Innovation, and Research, Arabi stated that the Bureau is collaborating with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to incorporate Distributed Ledger Technologies into MDA operations.

“Our goal is clear and impactful—streamline routine processes, protect sensitive information, and maximize resource utilization to deliver better services,” he noted.

Previous Automation Achievements

Arabi highlighted that the government has made substantial progress over the last ten years in automating financial and administrative systems. Key milestones include:

• Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS)
• Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS)
• Treasury Single Account (TSA)
• Integration of Bank Verification Number (BVN) into government systems

He emphasized that these systems have significantly curbed financial leakages and enhanced governance transparency across sectors.

“However, as global standards evolve toward smarter and more connected automation, Nigeria must intensify its digital transformation efforts,” he added.

He also cited BPSR’s efforts in digital integration, such as enabling the use of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database for unified identity verification and incorporating the National Identification Number (NIN) into JAMB’s UTME registration—examples of how inter-agency digital collaboration can streamline public services.

Human Capital Development

Arabi stressed that while technology is crucial, human capacity is the true driver of innovation. To this end, the Bureau plans to train 500,000 public servants in digital literacy and emerging technologies, preparing them to manage and sustain digital solutions effectively.

In the keynote address, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa—represented by his Technical Assistant, Dr. Femi Adeluyi—asserted that digital transformation is no longer a choice but a necessity for Nigeria.

Drawing lessons from digital frontrunners like Estonia, South Korea, and the UAE, he advocated for inclusive, data-driven governance, powered by broadband connectivity, cloud computing, advanced analytics, and robust cybersecurity.

He also referenced NITDA’s Digital Transformation Plans (DTPs) being deployed across MDAs in line with the Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 (SRAP 2023–2027), aimed at modernizing public sector operations.

Private Sector Support

Melanie Ayoola, Executive Director of the Tranter Group, stated that the conference aimed to identify ways intelligent IT management can enhance government performance. She affirmed Tranter and ManageEngine’s commitment to building a digitally capable public sector.

Echoing this, Srinivasan Rajasekar, Country Manager of ManageEngine Nigeria and Head of West Africa Operations, highlighted the crucial role of digital infrastructure in governance. He pointed out that digital transformation fosters transparency, improves operational efficiency, and boosts public satisfaction—adding that ManageEngine is poised to support Nigeria's digital journey.