NITDA to License Tech Firms for Software Testing Services

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) announced plans to license technology firms to provide independent software testing services aimed at improving the quality, security, and reliability of software used in government institutions and regulated private sector organizations. This initiative follows the launch of the National Software Quality Assurance Framework, which mandates that all Federal Government software projects undergo independent third-party testing and certification before deployment.

According to a statement from NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Hadiza Umar, the framework aims to reduce costly IT failures, enhance cybersecurity, and boost public confidence in digital government services by establishing national standards. The framework, signed by NITDA's Director General, Kashifu Abdullahi, will be a requirement for IT Project Clearance for government software projects starting in the second quarter of 2027.

NITDA will engage stakeholders and begin the accreditation process for Licensed Software Testing Organisations, issuing an Expression of Interest for tech firms seeking licenses soon.