Computer Society Raises Concern Over Nigeria’s Replacement of Remita

The Nigerian Computer Society (NCS) has expressed concern over the Federal Government’s decision to replace Remita Payment Service Ltd with the Treasury Management and Revenue Assurance System.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, NCS President Dr. Sirajo Aliyu highlighted the potential impact of the decision on Nigeria’s indigenous Information Technology (IT) sector.

Remita, a subsidiary of SystemSpecs Software Technology Group, has provided payment solutions for individuals and organisations for nearly two decades, maintaining a 100 per cent Nigerian workforce. The government’s move, announced on 4 March, has raised concerns about its implications for local IT firms and the wider economy.

Impact on Indigenous IT Industry

Dr Aliyu warned that replacing Remita could send the wrong message to local IT companies, discouraging investment in homegrown technological solutions. He emphasised that the Treasury Single Account (TSA), powered by Remita, was a fully indigenous project that had been globally recognised for its success.

“We are concerned that this decision could undermine confidence in Nigeria’s IT industry.”

“While the government has the right to make changes, such decisions should involve extensive consultation with stakeholders to avoid unintended consequences,” Aliyu stated.

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He added that the TSA had improved transparency, increased government savings, and enhanced operational efficiency in fund management. The sudden replacement of the platform, he cautioned, could disrupt these benefits.

Call for Reconsideration

The NCS Vice-President, Prof. Charles Onyeukwu, also urged the government to reconsider its decision, noting that Remita had been selected through a rigorous process involving both local and international firms. He suggested that instead of replacing the system, an Application Programming Interface (API) could be introduced to allow additional service providers to integrate with it.

“We believe a collaborative approach would ensure continuity while enhancing the system’s functionality,” Onyeukwu said.

A memo from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation confirmed that the Treasury Management and Revenue Assurance System would be implemented in two phases, starting on 4 March 2025. The new system is designed to streamline revenue collection and payments across ministries, departments, and agencies.

The NCS, Nigeria’s premier body for computing and IT professionals, has called on the government to engage with Remita and other stakeholders to find a solution that supports both national development and the growth of the indigenous IT sector.