On March 4, 2024, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy of Nigeria announced the release of the Nigerian Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Framework.  Below is a simplified and clear breakdown of the Nigeria Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Framework as detailed in the released document document. You can access the complete document here.

The Nigeria Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Framework is designed to digitally enhance public services provided by the Nigerian government.  

The framework aims to achieve a unified approach through the use of technology to streamline and secure important citizen life events, from birth registration and healthcare to education, tax filing, employment, business registration, operations, and retirement more efficient, transparent, and accessible.

A key part of this strategy is the Nigerian Digital Public Infrastructure Centre (Ng-DPIC), which will oversee the implementation and governance of these digital services.

Key Provisions:

The framework is built around three main digital systems known as the Nigerian DPI Stack:

• National Identity Management Commission: Provides the centralised digital identity system used for verifying citizen identities securely.
• Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS): Provides the Central Payment System and facilitates secure and efficient financial transactions.
• Galaxy Backbone (GBB) Limited’s Infrastructure: A wholly government infrastructure company, to provide a secure, interoperable platform that allows data exchange.

Legal Framework

The DPI is grounded on three main legal instruments overseen by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy:

• National Information Technology Development Agency Act (NITDA Act, 2007):
  Gives NITDA authority to regulate electronic governance, issue guidelines for electronic communication, and facilitate collaboration between government and private sector entities through standardised technology practices.

• Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA, 2023):
  Ensures personal data and privacy, outlining strict data handling, management, security, and protection regulations. The National Data Protection Commission established under this Act is responsible for oversight and compliance.

• Federal Government Directive on Galaxy Backbone Ltd (2020):
  This directive requires federal public institutions to use Galaxy Backbone Limited’s infrastructure for ICT projects, establishing it as the central provider of digital services to enhance data security, interoperability, and governance.

Governance Structure: The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the National Information Technology Development Agency and Galaxy Backbone Limited will oversee and manage the Nigerian Digital Public Infrastructure Centre (Ng-DPIC)

Impact on Individuals and Businesses:

Individuals:

• Easier and quicker access to critical government services such as birth certificates, healthcare, education records, and financial services
• Improved security and privacy for personal data.
• Greater transparency and efficiency in interactions with government services.

Businesses (including startups and MSMEs):

• Easier interaction with government platforms, leading to reduced operational costs and simplified regulatory compliance.
• Access to critical data enables business innovation.
• Improved financial services through efficient digital payments, fostering economic growth.

The DPI framework is a progressive step towards creating an integrated digital public services delivery ecosystem in Nigeria if implemented right. It will position Nigeria as a leader in digital governance in Africa, creating vast opportunities for innovation, especially for startups and small businesses. However, successful implementation hinges on strong governance, robust cybersecurity measures, and continuous engagement with citizens and private stakeholders.