NGF Unveils Tools To Modernise Public Service, Revenue Systems

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has launched two groundbreaking digital tools aimed at transforming public service delivery and modernising revenue administration across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The new tools—Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Readiness Index and Intelligent Revenue Authority (IRA) Index—are designed to assess states’ digital capabilities and foster more efficient, technology-driven governance.

Abdulateef Shittu, the NGF Director General, highlighted the importance of digital transformation in enhancing public service delivery and improving fiscal management.

“These tools are a step toward creating smarter states that can leverage technology to enhance citizen services and streamline revenue systems,” Shittu explained.

Key Features of the Tools

1. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Readiness Index
   This framework evaluates states’ preparedness to adopt digital tools for governance. The DPI Readiness Index is built around three core pillars:
   • Enabling Environment: Assessing the infrastructure and policy support for digital transformation.
   • Building Blocks: Evaluating the foundational technologies in place, such as digital connectivity and data systems.
   • Delivery of Public Services: Measuring how well digital tools are integrated into public service provision.

   The Index offers a detailed analysis of each state’s digital maturity, identifying strengths, gaps, and opportunities for improvement.

2. Intelligent Revenue Authority (IRA) Index
   This tool focuses on integrating digital systems into state revenue administration. It evaluates the use of technologies such as digital IDs, data exchange mechanisms, and payment systems to enhance efficiency, transparency, and revenue generation.

   Shittu emphasized the role of the IRA Index in boosting fiscal management:
   “The IRA Index is a game-changer for revenue generation and administration. It provides states with actionable insights to enhance efficiency and foster greater transparency,” he said.

Upcoming Validation Workshop

To ensure that these tools are practical and tailored to Nigeria’s specific needs, the NGF has scheduled a validation workshop for January 27, 2025. During the workshop, representatives from state ministries and revenue agencies will convene to review the tools, discuss their application, and provide feedback.

The workshop will focus on:

• Preliminary findings from the tools’ assessments.
• Use cases for their implementation across Nigeria.
• Establishing a reference group to guide the implementation of digital transformation initiatives at the state level.

A Commitment to Digital Transformation

The NGF’s initiative reflects a strong commitment to modernising governance through technology, with the potential to improve citizen engagement, streamline government operations, and enhance revenue systems.

Shittu urged stakeholders—state governments, policymakers, and development partners—to collaborate with the NGF in unlocking Nigeria’s digital potential.

“These indices are a reflection of the NGF’s dedication to transforming public service delivery and advancing governance through innovation,” he concluded.

The introduction of these digital tools marks a significant step in Nigeria’s journey towards a digitally-enabled future, with the potential to modernise the country’s governance structures and improve public service delivery across states.