As Nigeria charts a bold course toward citizen-centered digital transformation, the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation has emerged as a key partner, fully funding the first phase of the Nigeria Web Design Standards (NWDS) project an initiative launched by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in collaboration with NITDA to standardize and modernize government websites.
Speaking at the launch workshop in Abuja, Chairman of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, emphasized the transformative potential of digital technology in delivering efficient, accessible, and trusted public services.
“Countries that have mastered digital platforms have experienced significant improvements in governance and service delivery,” he said. “Nigeria must do the same by providing a single, integrated platform where citizens can access a range of services without confusion or inconsistency.”
Citing the example of the UK government’s digital portal, Imoukhuede stressed the importance of digital coherence and ease of navigation, noting that a standardized approach not only enhances citizen experience but also reinforces trust in government.
He commended the Minister, Dr. Bosun Tijani, for his visionary leadership and commitment to redefining how Nigeria presents itself in the digital space.
“An effective government website is no longer optional it is essential. It is the face of modern governance. As more Nigerians come online, digital inclusion must be prioritized, and government must be ready to meet citizens where they are online,” Imoukhuede said.
He also shared a personal reflection on his work building a website for Access Bank, and referenced other Nigerian entrepreneurs who are empowering digital lenders through technology evidence, he said, of how digital tools can revolutionize systems, create access, and deliver scale.
“We believe this project can transform how Nigerians interact with their government not just visually, but structurally. This is about internal reform and citizen service. It’s about hope, trust, and change.”
Delivering the keynote address at a one-day stakeholders’ workshop, the Minister, Dr. Bosun Tijani, emphasized the role of technology in rebuilding trust between citizens and government.
“People trust governments that serve them efficiently. And in the digital age, technology is the most powerful tool to deliver that service,” he said.
“Web platforms are the first point of interaction for most citizens. If they’re confusing, inconsistent, or difficult to use, they diminish trust. This project is about fixing that.”
Dr. Tijani called for co-creation and inclusiveness in designing the new web standards, stressing that government digital tools must reflect the values and needs of the people.
Corroborating the minister’s standpoint, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, NITDA Director-General, highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative improving governance through effective service delivery in a digital-first world.
“In today’s digital age, government must meet citizens where they are online. The Nigeria Web Design Standards project is aimed at redesigning and unifying government websites to deliver a unique, engaging, and memorable experience to every user,” said Abdullahi.
He pointed out that without clear standards, each agency operates in silos, building its own platforms with different layouts, navigation, and user experiences resulting in fragmented service delivery and user frustration.
“By standardizing our approach, we can create a repository of reusable components — making it easier for agencies to build websites that are consistent, citizen-friendly, and accessible,” he explained.
Earlier at the event, the Foundation’s Director of Programmes, Chioma Njoku, presented an overview of the Foundation’s mission and its alignment with the NWDS project.
She explained that the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation is a non-profit committed to building a public service that works for Africans, and its efforts are rooted in research showing significant development gaps between Nigeria and leading global economies in areas such as health, education, infrastructure, and public sector performance.
“Our vision is to close these gaps by supporting public sector reform through technical assistance, partnerships, and capacity building,” Njoku stated.
She also addressed the challenges faced in attracting young Nigerians to public service due to negative perceptions and limited systemic trust.
“Young people must see public service as a place of opportunity, not frustration. Through this project and others, we aim to change the narrative and inspire the next generation to believe in and contribute to national transformation.”
Njoku urged stakeholders — from government to the private sector, youth groups, civil society, and the media — to see transformation as a shared responsibility.
“This initiative is not just about websites it’s about building a responsive, open, and citizen-focused government. Everyone has a role to play.’
The NWDS seeks to create a unified design and functionality framework for all federal government websites, offering Nigerians a consistent, accessible, and trusted experience when interacting with public services online.
The project includes: A standardized web design framework; reusable digital components for agencies;a policy-backed compliance and assessment model; capacity-building for public service developers and emphasis on citizen co-creation and inclusion. With over 70% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 30 and increasing internet penetration nationwide, the NWDS is seen as a critical step in building a 21st-century public service.
