NITDA Unveils Digital Competence Framework to Curb Brain Drain in Civil Service

L–R: Moderator, Mrs. Wumi Oghoetuoma-Jolomi; PS Faruk Yabo Yusuf (Lead Speaker); Dr. Ahmed Tambuwal (Representative of the DG, NITDA); and Kevin Cunnington.

NITDA Unveils Digital Competence Framework to Curb Brain Drain in Civil Service

By Gloria Sarauniya Usman

ABUJA, NIGERIA July, 2025 -

In a strategic effort to curb the growing brain drain in Nigeria’s public sector, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched a Digital Competence Framework and Career Progression Model designed to build ICT capacity and retain digital talent within the civil service.

Speaking at the inaugural International Civil Service Conference held in Abuja, NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, described the initiative as a key component of the agency’s broader mission to make public service careers more attractive, competitive, and future-oriented.

The conference, themed “Rejuvenate, Innovate & Accelerate!”, featured a session titled “Digital Transformation: Digital Skills for Civil Servants – Capacity Gaps and Future Readiness”. Representing the NITDA DG, Dr. Ahmed Tambawal, Acting Director of Digital Literacy and Capacity Building, explained that the new framework—developed in collaboration with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation—addresses the stagnation of ICT professionals in underutilized roles.

“Many highly skilled digital professionals remain stuck in positions that fail to reflect their capabilities, unlike their counterparts in the private sector who benefit from structured career advancement and continuous professional development,” Inuwa noted.

The framework, which is already being implemented within NITDA, will soon be rolled out across other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). It provides structured career pathways, access to globally recognized certifications, and clearer progression routes for civil servants, enabling them to thrive and contribute to national digital transformation goals.

In addition to the framework, NITDA has also launched a Digital Champions Programme in partnership with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service. This initiative seeks to identify and train top digital talents within MDAs to spearhead innovation and transformation in their respective institutions.

“These digital champions will serve as internal change agents, fostering a culture of innovation and improving service delivery across the public sector,” Inuwa added.

The initiatives come in response to the ongoing “Japa” phenomenon—an increasing trend of skilled professionals leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad. By creating a more dynamic and rewarding work environment, NITDA hopes to reverse this exodus and strengthen the capacity of Nigeria’s civil service.

“We are committed to building a digital-first public service that nurtures talent, promotes professional growth, and accelerates national development,” Inuwa emphasized.

Other notable speakers at the session included Permanent Secretary Faruk Yabo Yusuf, Kevin Cunnington, and Wumi Oghoetuoma-Jolomi. Discussions revolved around the urgent need for digital transformation in governance, including rethinking how public institutions operate, interact with citizens, and deliver services. Emphasis was placed on strategic talent development, digital capability assessment, and leveraging public data to deliver smarter, more responsive outcomes.