NITDA Unveils Digital Competence Framework to Tackle Brain Drain in Nigeria’s Public Sector
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched a Digital Competence Framework and Career Progression Model to boost digital skills and curb the ongoing brain drain in Nigeria’s civil service. The initiative aims to make public sector careers more rewarding for ICT professionals and to align civil service talent with Nigeria’s digital transformation goals.
The announcement was made by NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, during the inaugural International Civil Service Conference in Abuja, hosted by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Inuwa was represented by Dr. Ahmed Tambawal, Acting Director of the Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Department.
Bridging Career Gaps in the Public Sector
Inuwa highlighted that the new framework was developed in partnership with the Office of the Head of Service to address two persistent challenges:
- Stagnant career growth for digital professionals in government roles
- Underutilisation of skilled ICT personnel compared to the private sector
“Highly skilled professionals are often stuck in roles that don’t reflect their expertise, while their counterparts in the private sector benefit from clear advancement paths and continuous training,” Inuwa said.
Structured Career Pathways and Global Certifications
The Digital Competence Framework provides structured progression pathways and access to globally recognised ICT certifications, helping civil servants advance in their careers while staying up to date with evolving technologies.
Currently piloted within NITDA, the framework will soon be deployed across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), equipping civil servants with the tools to thrive in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Digital Champions Programme to Drive Innovation
In addition to the framework, NITDA has launched a Digital Champions Programme in collaboration with the Office of the Head of Service. This initiative will:
- Identify top-performing digital professionals across MDAs
- Provide advanced training in emerging technologies
- Position champions as digital transformation leaders within their organisations
“These champions will drive digital change from within, promoting efficiency and fostering a culture of innovation across government,” said Inuwa.
Combating the “Japa” Syndrome
The launch comes amid rising concern over the “Japa” trend, where skilled Nigerian tech professionals are leaving the country for better opportunities abroad. NITDA hopes that by creating a more engaging, dynamic, and future-focused civil service, the government can retain top digital talent and reduce the exodus of professionals.
“We are committed to developing a digital civil service that retains talent, encourages growth, and drives national development,” Inuwa added.
Expert Panel Calls for Rethinking Governance
Other speakers at the conference included:
- Faruk Yabo Yusuf, Permanent Secretary
- Kevin Cunnington, international digital transformation expert
- Wumi Oghoetuoma-Jolomi, digital strategy consultant
The panel agreed that true digital transformation requires more than just adopting new tools. It demands a fundamental shift in public sector mindset, improved digital skills, and data-driven governance to restore public trust and enhance service delivery. With the Digital Competence Framework and Digital Champions Programme, NITDA is taking bold steps to modernise Nigeria’s civil service, tackle brain drain, and position public institutions as active contributors to national digital growth.
