The Role of IT Service Providers in Enabling Public Sector Digitalisation in Nigeria - Heirs Technologies
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The Role of IT Service Providers in Enabling Public Sector Digitalisation in Nigeria

Publish on February 20, 2025

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In the evolving landscape of governance, digital transformation is no longer optional for the Nigerian public sector—it is a necessity. The increasing demand for efficient service delivery, transparency, data security, and economic competitiveness makes digital transformation essential for modern governance in Nigeria. With an annual federal budget exceeding N49.7 trillion (2025), 36 states and 774 local government areas striving for efficiency, IT service providers have a critical role in accelerating Nigeria’s digital journey.

How is Nigeria currently positioned globally on the digitalisation scale?

– According to the United Nations E-Government Development Index, Nigeria was ranked 144th in 2022, with a score of 0.48146. This index assesses e-government development based on online services, telecommunication infrastructure, and human capital.

– In terms of digital competitiveness, Nigeria was placed 125th out of 137 countries in a 2024 report, indicating challenges in technology infrastructure and adoption.

– The positive statistics is from International Telecommunication Union (ITU) highlighting Nigeria’s readiness for digital transformation sits on 71% in a its 2024 assessment.

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These statistics are congruous with the data from Nigerian regulatory agencies such as the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) which stated that only 35% of government agencies have integrated digital tools for service delivery, compared to 85% in the private sector.

What Does Nigeria’s 2025 Budget Say About Digitalisation?

The 2025 budget, approved on 13 February 2025, seems to have reinforced the commitment of the Federal Government to public sector digitalisation as observed in key budget allocations for digital initiatives:

– Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy: Strengthening cloud computing adoption, e-Government platforms, and digital literacy initiatives.

– Ministry of Education: Investments in e-learning infrastructure, digital libraries, and STEM education.

– Ministry of Finance: Expansion of automated tax collection systems and digital revenue tracking.

– Ministry of Power: Deployment of smart grid technologies to improve electricity distribution.

– Ministry of Interior: Enhancing digital identity systems and biometric security frameworks.

These initiatives highlight the Government’s recognition that digitalisation is a key driver of governance, economic development, national security and alignment with global standards.

What Regulations Drives Digitalisation in Nigerian Agencies?

Several policies and regulations continue to shape digital transformation in Nigeria’s public sector:

– National e-Government Master Plan (NeGMP): Provides a roadmap for digital government services and inter-agency collaboration.

– Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023): Ensures secure handling of citizens’ data and mandates compliance for MDAs.

– Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act (2015): Establishes guidelines for securing government digital assets.

– Federal Government’s Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (2020-2030): Aims to enhance digital literacy, infrastructure, and service delivery.

– Nigerian National Broadband Plan (2020-2025): Supports connectivity for government institutions to improve service efficiency.

These regulations provide the foundation for IT service providers to deploy secure, scalable, and effective digital solutions in MDAs.

In What Areas Can IT Service Providers Drive Impact?

1) Enhancing Government Service Delivery:

– Digital platforms for citizen engagement (e-government portals) can reduce processing times by 40%.

– The Automation of manual processes. Government Agencies like FIRS, NIMC, and NUPRC have improved efficiency by 50% post-automation.

– AI-driven virtual assistants can manage 24/7 government service inquiries, reducing the workload on civil servants.

2) Strengthening Revenue Generation through Digital Platforms:

– Nigeria’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has the potential to grow beyond N3.4 trillion annually with better automation of tax collection.

– Deployment of Digital Tax Collection Solutions to State Governments. Lagos State’s deployment of digital tax solutions increased revenue by 30% in 2022.

– IT service providers can develop integrated digital tax payment systems for seamless transactions in the States and Local Governments.

3) Improved Cybersecurity & Data Protection in Public Sector Agencies

– Nigeria loses over $500 million annually due to cyber breaches.

– IT service providers can partner with Government MDAs to implement multi-layer security frameworks, including cloud-based security solutions, advanced threat detection, and blockchain-based transaction monitoring.

– Compliance with ISO 27001, PCI DSS, and GDPR will be critical in protecting government data.

4) Infrastructure Modernisation & Cloud Adoption

– Less than 25% of Nigerian government agencies have adopted cloud computing, leading to inefficiencies.

– IT Service Providers can support Federal MDA’s transition to hybrid cloud models thereby reducing operational costs by 40%.

– Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) with leading cloud service providers can fast-track digital transformation.

5) Bridging the Digital Skills Gap

– Over 60% of public sector employees lack digital literacy which often hinders the implementation of roadmap or adoption of new tools and solutions.

– IT providers can offer capacity-building programs to accelerate the adoption of digital tools.

– Partnerships with Tech Academies and e-learning platforms will ensure continuous staff training.

6) Smart City Initiatives & Digital Identity Management

– Nigeria’s urbanization necessitates smart city solutions such as traffic monitoring, automated waste management, and public safety technologies.

– NIMC’s National Identity Number (NIN) will soon commence the implementation of NIMC 2.0, a solution that will foster efficient governance, and accelerate nationwide digital identity verification.

– Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and Internet of Things (IoT)-driven solutions for monitoring and managing Critical National Infrastructure.

Benefits of Digitalisation – FIRS as a Case Study

Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), in partnership with IT service providers, automated tax filing and compliance process, which significantly contributed to the increase in revenue collection from N5.3 trillion (2020) to N10.1 trillion (2023). This transformation underscores the impact of strategic digital adoption. Additionally, states like Ogun and Kaduna have launched digital tax solutions, improved compliance rates, reducing revenue leakages.

Several ministries and agencies (75%) in the 3 tiers of government can leverage the expertise of IT service providers to improve their processes, secure assets, reduce running costs, increase revenue, boost cybersecurity and upskill employees.

Conclusion and The Path Forward

IT service providers are no longer just vendors; they are strategic partners in Nigeria’s digital governance agenda. With the right policies, infrastructure investment, and cybersecurity measures, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of e-Government, e-Citizens and digital public services.

A multi-stakeholder approach is required:

– Government agencies must embrace digital transformation by priming civil servants through training and value communication.

– IT service providers must offer scalable, secure, and cost-effective solutions.

– Private sector players must invest in digital infrastructure and skills development.

By effectively integrating these elements, Nigeria’s public sector will become more transparent, efficient, and future-ready.

At Heirs Technologies, we drive public sector digital transformation through innovative IT solutions, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and process automation. Our expertise enables government agencies to enhance e-government services, streamline digital workflows, and strengthen data security—ensuring efficiency, transparency, and seamless citizen engagement.

With the right technology partners, Nigeria’s public sector can achieve smarter, more secure, and citizen-centric services—paving the way for a truly digital future.

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ICYMI: What’s Next for Network Infrastructure? Here’s What Our Speakers Had to Say.

As businesses expand their digital footprints, traditional network infrastructures face unprecedented challenges. From evolving cybersecurity threats to increasing demands for scalability, companies are rethinking how they build and manage their networks. This was the core focus of  The Digital Shift Webinar Series 1.0, where industry leaders shared insights on how business can future-proof their network infrastructure. The discussion highlighted the challenges of traditional networks, the emerging trends shaping enterprise networking, and the actionable steps businesses can take to stay ahead. If you missed the session, here's a breakdown of the top insights from our expert panel!

Challenges in traditional network infrastructure

Today's businesses require networks that do more than just connect devices. They need systems that enhance performance, ensure security, and scale with growth. However, traditional network infrastructure presents several roadblocks: 1. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities: Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, rendering traditional security models insufficient. Businesses need proactive, AI-driven security solutions that identify and mitigate threats in real-time. 2. Scalability issues: As companies expand, their legacy network infrastructures often struggle to keep up, leading to performance bottlenecks and higher maintenance costs. 3. Performance and reliability concerns: With businesses relying on real-time applications and cloud-based solutions, network lag or downtime can significantly disrupt operations and customer experience. These challenges demand a new approach to networking, one that prioritises agility, security and scalability

Emerging solutions: The future of enterprise networking

To overcome these challenges, our expert panel discussed four key technology trends reshaping the future of networking 1. Next-Generation Cybersecurity: Zero Trust & AI-Driven Protection: Cybersecurity is no longer just about firewalls and antivirus software. A zero-trust security model ensures that every access request is verified before permissions are granted. Businesses should adopt: - AI-powered threat detection to identify and respond to cyberattacks in real-time. - Automated security updates to patch vulnerabilities instantly. - Multi-layered encryption to protect sensitive data across the network. 2. Scalable Network Architectures (Cloud & SDN):  To stay competitive, businesses need networks that can adapt to their growth. Our speakers highlighted the importance of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and cloud-based architectures for scalability: - SDN enables dynamic traffic management, optimising network performance based on demand. - Hybrid cloud solutions allow businesses to scale operations seamlessly without infrastructure limitations. 3. AI and Automation in Network Management: AI is transforming how businesses monitor, manage, and optimise their networks. Instead of reacting to failures, businesses can now predict and prevent issues before they occur. Key benefits include: - Predictive analytics that detects potential failures before they disrupt operations. - Automated configurations and updates, reducing downtime and IT workload. - Intelligent traffic routing, improving efficiency and performance. 4. Edge Computing: Faster, Smarter, and More Secure Networks: With the rise of IoT devices and real-time data processing, edge computing is becoming a game-changer. Instead of sending all data to a central cloud, businesses can process information closer to the source, reducing latency and improving efficiency. - Reduced network congestion with real-time local data processing. - Enhanced security by minimising data exposure to external threats. - Faster decision-making, crucial for industries relying on automation and analytics.

Key Takeaways from the Webinar

Our expert panel left attendees with these critical insights for future-proofing their network infrastructure: - Adopt proactive cybersecurity measures: AI-driven threat detection and Zero Trust models are non-negotiable. - Invest in scalable solutions: Businesses should move away from rigid, outdated infrastructures and embrace cloud and SDN technologies. - Leverage AI and automation: Smarter network management reduces downtime, lowers costs, and boosts performance. - Implement edge computing: For industries that rely on real-time data, edge computing will be a major differentiator.

The Cost Factor: Making Future-Ready Networks Affordable

One common concern businesses have is cost. However, as our panel emphasised, modern network solutions do not have to break the bank.
“The misconception is that future-proofing networks is expensive. The truth is, with the right strategy and managed services, you can significantly cut costs while improving performance.” – Osahon Elaiho, Heirs Technologies.
This is where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) like Heirs Technologies come in. Instead of handling everything in-house, businesses can outsource network management to experts, ensuring: - Cost-effective solutions tailored to specific business needs. - 24/7 monitoring and proactive support, minimising downtime. - Access to cutting-edge technology without the burden of internal IT maintenance. The digital landscape is evolving, and businesses that fail to adapt risk falling behind. To stay competitive, companies must invest in secure, scalable, and high-performing network solutions. At Heirs Technologies, we help businesses navigate this transformation with tailored networking solutions, expert-managed services, and cutting-edge technology. Ready to optimise your network for the future? Contact us today and let’s build a smarter, more resilient IT infrastructure for your business.
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Do You Know All the Things That an MSP Can Do?

Imagine trying to run a marathon while also fixing the road ahead of you, every crack, pothole, and unexpected detour. That’s what managing IT in today’s fast-paced business world often feels like. Keeping up with infrastructure, cybersecurity, cloud services, and end-user support is a full-time job, and yet, organisations still need to focus on their core business functions. This is where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in. Rather than juggling IT challenges internally, businesses can offload their technology needs to experts who specialise in optimising systems, ensuring security, and keeping operations running smoothly. From IT infrastructure management to cybersecurity and cloud services, MSPs offer a wide range of solutions that keep businesses efficient, secure, and future-ready. In this article, we’ll explore the key services MSPs provide, how they benefit organisations, and why businesses are increasingly relying on them to navigate the complexities of the digital age.

1. IT Infrastructure Management

Every organisation relies on its IT infrastructure – servers, networks, storage, and hardware, to keep operations running. But maintaining this ecosystem requires constant monitoring, maintenance, and optimisation. MSPs provide end-to-end IT infrastructure management, covering:
  • ✔  Server and Network Management: Monitor, maintain, and optimise servers and networks to ensure high availability and performance.
  • ✔  Hardware and Software Support: Ensuring all IT assets are up to date and functioning efficiently.
  • ✔  Proactive Monitoring & Maintenance: 24/7 monitoring to identify and resolve potential issues before they disrupt operations.
Why It Matters: Downtime and inefficiencies in IT infrastructure can cost businesses millions in lost productivity. With proactive monitoring and regular maintenance, businesses can minimise disruptions and maximise operational efficiency.

2. Cloud Management Services

With the growing reliance on cloud technology, businesses need robust cloud management solutions to optimise costs, security, and performance. MSPs offer:
  • ✔  Cloud Migration & Deployment – Seamless transition from on-premises to cloud environments.
  • ✔  Multi-Cloud Management – Managing AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud platforms for optimal performance.
  • ✔  Cloud Security & Compliance – Ensuring cloud environments meet industry standards for security and regulatory compliance.
Why It Matters: A well-managed cloud strategy can reduce IT costs by up to 40% while improving agility and scalability.

3. Cybersecurity Management

Cyber threats are evolving, and businesses can no longer afford to take a reactive approach. MSPs offer proactive cybersecurity solutions that include:
  • ✔  Threat Detection & Response – Identifying and mitigating cyber threats in real time.
  • ✔  Firewall & Network Security – Implementing firewalls, encryption, and secure access controls.
  • ✔  Endpoint Security & Zero Trust Frameworks – Protecting all devices and ensuring secure access controls.
  • ✔  Compliance Management – Ensuring businesses adhere to regulations like GDPR, ISO 27001, and other security standards.
Why It Matters: Without a strong cybersecurity strategy, businesses risk financial losses, reputational damage, and legal penalties.

4. Data & Application Management

Data is one of the most valuable assets a business owns, yet poor management can lead to inefficiencies, compliance risks, and security threats. MSPs Provide:
  • ✔  Backup & Disaster Recovery – Ensuring critical data is recoverable in case of cyberattacks or system failures.
  • ✔  Application Performance Management – Monitoring and optimising software to enhance productivity.
  • ✔  Database Management – Organising and securing business-critical information.
Why It Matters: Businesses that lack robust data management strategies risk data loss, inefficiencies, and compliance violations. A structured data management plan ensures resilience and continuity.

5. End-User Support & Helpdesk Services

Even the best IT infrastructure is ineffective if employees struggle with technical issues. MSPs provide helpdesk and support services that include:
  • ✔  24/7 IT Helpdesk Support – Instant assistance for IT issues via multiple channels.
  • ✔  Remote & On-Site Support – Troubleshooting problems swiftly to minimise downtime.
  • ✔  Employee Training & IT Best Practices – Educating teams on cybersecurity and IT efficiency.
Why It Matters: IT disruptions can decrease employee productivity by up to 30%, making reliable support essential for maintaining workflow efficiency.

Why partner with an MSP like Heirs Technologies?

Technology is the foundation of modern business success. However, managing IT infrastructure, security, and operations in-house can be complex, costly, and time-consuming. Partnering with a trusted Managed Service Provider like Heirs Technologies ensures: ✔  Proactive IT Management – Preventing issues before they cause disruptions. ✔  Cost Efficiency – Reducing IT overhead and improving resource allocation. ✔  Robust Security – Mitigating cybersecurity risks and ensuring compliance. ✔  Enhanced Productivity – Allowing businesses to focus on growth, not IT problems. At Heirs Technologies, we empower businesses with world-class IT solutions, ensuring they stay ahead in an increasingly digital world. 📞 Get in Touch Today! Contact us to learn how we can help you optimise your IT environment and drive business success.
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How to Choose the Right IT Partner – 5 Must-Have Qualities

 

…because the wrong IT Partner can cost you more than just money!

Imagine this: Your business is scaling fast, customer demand is surging, and you need a tech infrastructure that can keep up. You bring in an IT partner, expecting seamless operations, airtight security, and future-ready solutions.

Instead? Missed deadlines, constant downtime, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and generic solutions that don’t fit your business needs. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Choosing the wrong IT partner doesn’t just cost money. It costs growth, efficiency, and even reputation. But with the right partner? You gain a strategic ally who helps you drive innovation, streamline operations, and turn technology into a true business advantage.

So, how do you separate the experts from the overpromisers? Here are five must-have qualities to look for in an IT partner that will truly move your business forward.

1. A Strategic Mindset – More Than Just a Service Provider

Your IT partner shouldn’t just be someone who fixes problems when things break - they should be a strategic ally who aligns technology with your business goals.

🟢What to Look For:

  • Do they take the time to understand your business model and long-term vision?

  • Can they anticipate future tech trends and help you stay ahead of the curve?

  • Are they proactive in offering solutions, or do they only react when something goes wrong?

The right IT partner doesn’t just provide services; they drive business growth through technology.

🔴Red Flag: If an IT provider is offering cookie-cutter solutions without understanding your industry’s challenges, they aren’t the right fit.

2. Expertise & Industry Experience – Do They Know Your World?

Not all IT providers are created equal. Experience matters, but more importantly, you need a partner who understands your specific industry’s challenges.

🟢Key Considerations:

  • Have they worked with businesses similar to yours?

  • Do they have expertise in your sector’s compliance and regulatory requirements?

  • Can they demonstrate past success with relevant case studies?

If your business operates in a highly regulated industry like finance, healthcare, or manufacturing, your IT partner needs to be well-versed in compliance, data security, and industry-specific technology needs.

🔴Red Flag: If they can’t provide real-world examples of how they’ve helped businesses like yours, they might not be the right fit.

3. Security & Compliance – Because Downtime Is Not an Option

Cyber threats are more sophisticated than ever, and businesses of all sizes are targets. A data breach, ransomware attack, or system failure can cripple your operations overnight. Your IT partner should have a security-first approach to protect your business from emerging threats.

🟢What to Ask:

  • What cybersecurity measures do they have in place?

  • How do they ensure compliance with industry regulations (e.g., GDPR, ISO 27001, SOC 2)?

  • What is their disaster recovery and business continuity plan in case of an attack or outage?

Your IT provider should be able to assess vulnerabilities, implement robust security measures, and provide ongoing monitoring to keep your business secure.

🔴Red Flag: If they downplay security risks or don’t have a clear incident response plan, you should be concerned.

4. Scalability & Flexibility – Can They Grow with You?

Your business today won’t be the same five years from now, and your IT partner needs to scale with your growth. Whether you’re expanding, adopting new technology, or navigating market shifts, your IT provider should be agile and adaptable.

🟢Questions to Consider:

  • Can they support your business as it scales without major disruptions?

  • Do they offer customised solutions rather than one-size-fits-all services?

  • Are they flexible enough to pivot when your needs change?

The best IT partners evolve with your business, ensuring that your tech infrastructure remains an asset—not a bottleneck.

🔴Red Flag: If their solutions feel rigid, outdated, or unable to scale, they might not be a long-term fit.

Final Thoughts: The Right IT Partner Is a Competitive Advantage

Choosing an IT partner isn’t just a tech decision. It’s a business decision. The right partner will help you:

  • Align technology with business strategy

  • Strengthen cybersecurity and compliance

  • Future-proof your operations with scalable solutions

  • Drive efficiency and innovation across your organisation

At Heirs Technologies, we don’t just provide IT solutions—we become an extension of your team, helping you navigate digital transformation with confidence.

📩 Looking for an IT partner who truly understands your business? Visit our website to explore our solutions and learn more about how we can support your business growth and transformation.

Not sure where to start? Start with a consultation

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The Role of IT Service Providers in Enabling Public Sector Digitalisation in Nigeria

In the evolving landscape of governance, digital transformation is no longer optional for the Nigerian public sector—it is a necessity. The increasing demand for efficient service delivery, transparency, data security, and economic competitiveness makes digital transformation essential for modern governance in Nigeria. With an annual federal budget exceeding N49.7 trillion (2025), 36 states and 774 local government areas striving for efficiency, IT service providers have a critical role in accelerating Nigeria’s digital journey.

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