The Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) has called for the urgent integration of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Robotic Process Automation (RPA), and Blockchain into the operations of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to strengthen service delivery in Nigeria.
Speaking at the ITGov 2025 summit in Abuja themed “Advancing Government Operations Through Digital Transformation”, BPSR Director-General Dr. Dasuki Arabi, represented by Sulola Johnson, Director of Strategy Innovation Research, emphasised that automation is now a strategic necessity for effective governance.
According to Arabi, automation holds the potential to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, enhance accountability, and drive efficiency across government operations. He added that the BPSR, in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is actively integrating Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLTs) into public institutions to simplify processes and safeguard sensitive data.
“In a country as vast and diverse as Nigeria, automated systems tailored to local realities can close service delivery gaps and ensure even remote communities benefit,” Arabi stated. He urged federal and state governments to harmonise efforts, share data, and coordinate digital platforms to deliver seamless, citizen-centric services nationwide.
Also speaking at the event, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, said technology must be seen not only as a tool, but as a weapon against inefficiency and systemic delays in governance.
Abdullahi stressed that digital systems are essential to modern public administration, capable of eliminating duplication, reducing human error, and speeding up decision-making. He noted that Nigeria’s internet and mobile penetration — with over 122 million Nigerians online and mobile usage above 90% — presents an opportunity to offer on-demand, real-time services to citizens.
“A truly digital government cannot work in silos. We need interoperable systems, shared services, and a whole-of-government approach. Our Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) must be integrated and inclusive,” he added.
On the private sector’s role, Melanie Ayoola, Executive Director of TransterIT Group, highlighted the growing reliance on IT automation solutions in both private and public sectors. She revealed that half of Nigeria’s largest enterprises depend on ManageEngine for IT service management, helping organisations respond swiftly to disruptions and maintain productivity.
“In government, where thousands of staff work daily, even minor IT hitches can impact nationwide service delivery. Automation ensures that operations remain stable and effective,” Ayoola explained.
As Nigeria pushes toward a digitally transformed public sector, the speakers agreed that embracing smart technologies, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering collaboration across all levels of government are key to unlocking efficient and accountable governance for all Nigerians.
