The Nigerian government has unveiled an ambitious plan to transition its civil service to a fully paperless system by December 2025—a strategic move aimed at modernizing public administration and embracing digital transformation.
Announced by Dr. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the initiative was presented during a press briefing in Abuja as part of the 2025 African Public Service Day celebrations. According to Dr. Walson-Jack, the shift to a digital-first civil service will play a pivotal role in improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability across all levels of government operations.
This landmark reform aligns with global trends, as more countries turn to digital solutions to streamline bureaucracy, reduce operational costs, and enhance citizen engagement. For Nigeria, the move represents a critical step toward modern governance and sustainable development, especially as digital infrastructure and skills development become increasingly essential to national progress.
The transition to a paperless system is expected to yield multiple benefits, including greater data security, faster processing times, and significant reductions in administrative overhead. By replacing physical files with secure digital records, the government aims to minimize the risk of document loss, duplication, and mismanagement. Additionally, automating routine processes will enable civil servants to redirect their focus toward high-impact tasks, improving productivity and public service delivery.
Environmental sustainability also plays a role in this initiative. Reducing paper consumption across government ministries contributes to eco-conscious governance, aligning Nigeria’s administrative evolution with global climate and sustainability goals.
The digital shift comes at a time when public institutions are under increasing pressure to modernize in response to demographic shifts, rapid urbanization, and a digitally savvy population. The government’s approach signals a forward-thinking stance on governance and a commitment to adopting cutting-edge solutions in service of national development.
To ensure successful implementation, stakeholders have emphasized the need for robust digital infrastructure, staff training programs, and the adoption of secure technologies to support the transition. Capacity-building efforts, investment in cloud-based systems, and cybersecurity measures will be central to ensuring a smooth and effective rollout.
By setting a firm deadline of December 2025, Nigeria is sending a strong message: the future of governance is digital, and the time to act is now.