The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has convened key stakeholders to validate a comprehensive new framework aimed at advancing data-driven policymaking across Nigeria.
The initiative represents a significant step towards strengthening evidence-based decision-making within government institutions by promoting the effective collection, management, analysis, and use of data in policy formulation and public service delivery.
Furthermore, NITDA said the framework is designed to improve governance, enhance institutional efficiency, and support national development through the strategic use of reliable data.
Promoting Evidence-Based Governance
NITDA explained that effective policymaking depends on accurate, timely, and reliable data.
Furthermore, the proposed framework seeks to ensure that government policies are informed by credible evidence, enabling public institutions to make better decisions that respond to the needs of citizens and the realities of national development.
Evidence-based governance improves policy outcomes.
Stakeholder Collaboration
The validation exercise brought together representatives from government agencies, the private sector, academia, development partners, technology experts, and policy professionals.
Furthermore, participants reviewed the proposed framework and provided recommendations to strengthen its implementation while ensuring that it aligns with national development priorities and international best practices.
Collaboration enhances policy effectiveness.
Strengthening Data Governance
According to NITDA, the framework places strong emphasis on improving data governance across public institutions.
Furthermore, it encourages the adoption of uniform standards for data collection, storage, sharing, security, and management while promoting greater accountability in the use of public information.
Strong governance builds public confidence.
Supporting Digital Transformation
The agency noted that effective data management remains essential to Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda.
Furthermore, improving access to quality data will support innovation, digital public services, smart governance, and more efficient implementation of government programmes across various sectors.
Digital transformation depends on reliable information.
Improving Public Service Delivery
NITDA stated that stronger data systems will enable public institutions to deliver more responsive and efficient services.
Furthermore, policymakers will be better equipped to monitor programme performance, evaluate outcomes, identify service gaps, and allocate resources more effectively.
Data improves service delivery.
Enhancing National Development Planning
The framework is also expected to strengthen long-term national planning by providing policymakers with accurate information for forecasting, budgeting, and development planning.
Furthermore, improved data utilisation will support decision-making across sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure, technology, and economic development.
Reliable data supports sustainable growth.
Building Institutional Capacity
NITDA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening institutional capacity through continuous training, technical support, and knowledge sharing.
Furthermore, the agency will continue working with stakeholders to improve data literacy, strengthen digital capabilities, and encourage responsible data management throughout the public sector.
Capacity building drives institutional excellence.
Advancing Smarter Governance
The validation of the new framework marks another important milestone in NITDA’s efforts to modernise governance through digital innovation.
Furthermore, by promoting data-driven policymaking, strengthening institutional collaboration, improving data governance, and supporting evidence-based decision-making, the agency aims to build a more efficient, transparent, and accountable public sector capable of accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation and sustainable national development.
