The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has introduced a National Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Framework that will make independent software testing mandatory for Federal Government IT projects before they receive approval. The framework, which takes full effect in the second quarter of 2027, is aimed at reducing software failures, strengthening cybersecurity and improving the quality of digital public services, while giving government agencies and technology firms time to prepare for compliance.
Under the new framework, government software must undergo independent third party testing and certification before obtaining IT Project Clearance. It also introduces national guidelines covering secure software development, compulsory testing for security, performance and interoperability, as well as a licensing system for software testing organisations. High risk platforms, including banking switches, national identity systems and power infrastructure, will face the strictest testing and regulatory oversight.
NITDA said the initiative will improve the reliability of government digital services, reduce costly system failures and create new opportunities for Nigerian software testing firms. The agency also expects the framework to boost international confidence in locally developed software and strengthen the country’s growing technology ecosystem.
According to NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the framework will establish clear national standards for software security, reliability and interoperability, helping modernise government technology and position Nigerian software for global competitiveness. Ahead of full implementation, the agency plans stakeholder consultations, capacity building programmes and the accreditation of independent software testing organisations.