JUST IN: FG set to save over N2b in 2026 as MDAs go paperless

JUST IN: FG set to save over N2b in 2026 as MDAs go paperless

FG set to save over N2b in 2026 as MDAs go paperless Content Management (ECM) system by ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).

The ECM is a digitalisation programme initiated by the Head of Service of the Federation in line with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (2021–2025) and involves automating workflows, not just digitising files.

Analysis of the 2024 and 2025 budgets of 10 ministries shows that a significant portion of expenditure went into stationery.

For instance, in 2024, the 10 ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Defence, Information and National Orientation, Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Budget and Economic Planning, Industry, Trade and Investment, Agriculture and Food Security, Finance, and Interior, as well as the Office of the Head of Service, collectively spent N969.37 million on stationery. That figure rose to N1.52 billion in 2025 and is expected to rise further in 2026.

The Head of Service had set 31 December 2025 as the deadline for all MDAs to become fully paperless, as part of a major digital transformation initiative to boost efficiency, transparency, curb corruption, and reduce delays.

Speaking at the launch of the system in his ministry, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, said that to achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration, digital transformation is not optional but a national necessity.

Senator Bagudu noted that the ministry, being at the centre of national planning and economic coordination, “it is therefore essential that we keep prioritising efficiency, innovation, and modern governance.” He added that from henceforth there would be no more paper correspondence in the ministry.

Represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Deborah Odoh, the minister said the launch of the system aligns directly with the vision and directive of President Bola Tinubu, as articulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasises reform, institutional efficiency, transparency, and the strategic use of technology as a catalyst for national development.

“The Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025, the flagship reform initiative of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, aligns with the vision of Mr President,” he said, adding, “The digitalisation pillar of this reform is transforming the Federal Civil Service.

Let me clearly state that digitalisation is not just about technology, it’s about people and mindsets.”