The National Information Technology Development Agency has emphasized the urgent need to harmonize data systems across government institutions to improve evidence-based planning and governance efficiency.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the National Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Co-ordination Committee in Abuja, NITDA Director General Kashifu Inuwa said fragmented databases remain a major barrier to effective policymaking.

He noted that the reform of the CRVS system aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes digital public infrastructure, efficient service delivery, and data-driven governance.

“From registering people at birth, giving them legal identity, and linking that information to national planning and budgeting, technology can help us stitch everything together. Without harmonising our data, we cannot generate the insight we need for national development,” he added.

Inuwa highlighted the importance of integrating identity and statistical data from key agencies, including the National Population Commission, National Identity Management Commission, and National Bureau of Statistics, to ensure inclusive and responsive governance.

He also pledged NITDA’s support in setting standards and providing advisory services to facilitate a seamless and citizen-focused digital transformation of civil registration processes.

“Our vision is to ensure that the right standards and digital advisory services are in place for all institutions involved in CRVS. We are committed to supporting this committee by enabling the technology that will power seamless, integrated service delivery for all Nigerians,” Inuwa said.

Underscoring NITDA’s broader mandate, Inuwa said the agency will play a pivotal role in developing the digital infrastructure and governance frameworks required to operationalize a unified CRVS platform in Nigeria. He added that digital technology has become a way of life, noting that citizens increasingly expect seamless, paperless, and hassle-free access to public services.

“Everything must be digital, seamless, and secure,” he said.

Despite repeated calls for reform, data harmonization in Nigeria has seen limited progress, as many government agencies continue to operate in silos.

The fragmentation of data systems remains a persistent challenge, even as officials increasingly acknowledge the need for a more integrated approach to governance.