By Chibuike Nwabuko
Abuja, (Precise Post) — The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called for a comprehensive digital overhaul of government operations, urging Nigeria to place technology at the core of governance to drive efficiency, inclusiveness, and sustainable reform.
Speaking at the National GovTech Policy Roundtable 2026, Kalu described the forum as a critical moment for Nigeria’s public sector, stressing the need to transition from fragmented digital initiatives to a fully integrated system anchored on what he termed “Digital First Governance.”
This was contained in a statement signed by the SA Press Affairs to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Udora Orizu,made available to Precise Post on Monday.
According to Kalu, while Nigeria has made notable strides through digital identity programmes, electronic payment systems, e-service platforms, and data infrastructure, the country must now adopt a more cohesive and strategic approach.
He explained that “Digital First Governance” goes beyond policy rhetoric, requiring government to embed technology into the design and delivery of public services, ensuring accessibility for all citizens, including those with limited connectivity, low literacy levels, or disabilities.
Kalu emphasized that technology should no longer be treated as an afterthought or a pilot initiative, but as a foundational element in how government institutions are structured and how citizens are engaged.
Highlighting legislative efforts to support the transition, the Deputy Speaker pointed to the proposed National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill as a pivotal step toward institutionalizing digital transformation. He noted that the bill, if passed, would enforce digital compliance across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), promote interoperability of systems, and establish clear roles alongside enforceable mechanisms that extend beyond political cycles.
The Deputy Speaker further disclosed that the roundtable was co-convened by his office to ensure that contributions from stakeholders—including government officials, private sector players, development partners, and civil society—are reflected in the legislative process.
Kalu cautioned against developing policies in isolation, warning that such an approach has historically led to poor implementation and weak coordination.
Expressing optimism about the outcome of the engagement, he said the roundtable is expected to produce a practical reform roadmap, build consensus around the proposed legislation, and generate actionable recommendations for the National Assembly.
He also advocated the creation of a multi-stakeholder collaboration framework to sustain momentum and ensure continuity in reforms.
The Deputy Speaker urged public officials to embrace institutional reforms with transparency and resolve, while calling on the private sector to act as long-term partners in development rather than short-term contractors. He also encouraged development partners to focus on building local capacity and promoting national ownership.
In his remarks, Director of GovTech Africa, Fortune Toma, noted that governments across Africa are increasingly leveraging digital tools such as identity systems, interoperable platforms, and data-driven technologies to improve service delivery and transparency.
Toma added that the roundtable is designed as a solution-driven platform aimed at addressing systemic challenges, questioning entrenched practices, and fostering practical, scalable innovations in governance.
The event brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on the future of digital governance in Nigeria, with expectations that its outcomes will shape policy direction and legislative action in the months ahead.
