The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has unveiled a Software Testing Framework aimed at improving the security, reliability and performance of digital systems while reducing cybersecurity risks associated with software failures.
In a statement released on Thursday and signed by the NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the agency said the framework establishes standards for software testing, certification and deployment across Federal Government institutions, regulated sectors and the broader technology ecosystem.
NITDA said the framework was introduced to address challenges linked to software vulnerabilities, system failures and security risks that could affect digital services and public investments in technology.
According to the agency, the framework comprises three key regulatory instruments: the National Software Development Guideline, the National Software Testing Guideline and the Software Testing Organisations Licensing (STOL) Guideline.
The National Software Development Guideline provides standards for structured software development processes, secure coding practices, documentation and accessibility requirements for digital services. The Software Testing Guideline sets requirements for assessing software functionality, cybersecurity resilience, performance and compatibility before deployment.
NITDA said the STOL Guideline will regulate and accredit independent Licensed Software Testing Organisations (LSTOs) responsible for evaluating and certifying software solutions before they are deployed.
The agency added that government software projects will now be required to undergo independent third-party testing and receive certification before going live. It said compliance with the framework will become a requirement for obtaining IT Project Clearance.
To manage different levels of operational risks, NITDA said the framework introduces a classification system that categorises software into three levels: Class A for high-risk and critical infrastructure systems, Class B for moderate-risk enterprise platforms and Class C for low-risk internal tools.
Speaking on the framework, Abdullahi said quality and security are essential to building trust in digital services. He said the initiative would ensure that software solutions serving Nigerians meet clear standards for security, reliability and interoperability while improving the competitiveness of Nigerian technology products.
NITDA said the Software Testing Framework will take full effect in the second quarter of 2027. The agency added that it will begin stakeholder engagement sessions, capacity-building programmes and the accreditation process for software testing organisations ahead of the implementation date.
