The Federal Government has transitioned to its indigenous 1Gov Cloud platform as part of efforts to digitise the civil service.

Speaking at the Go-Live event on Monday, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, said all ministries and extra-ministerial departments must adopt digital workflows latest by December 31, 2025.

She explained that the new system replaced the previous Laserfish platform and provides a centralized workspace for managing official records, memos, and approvals.

Walson-Jack noted that the transition would improve efficiency, accountability, and transparency across the civil service.

The Head of Service clarified that the digital platform does not allow civil servants to work remotely from home.

“Work will be more efficient and productive, but physical presence and accountability remain essential. The system ensures seamless workflows without unnecessary delays,” she said.

Walson-Jack outlined four key reasons for the migration: protecting national digital sovereignty, enabling interoperability across ministries, improving cost efficiency, and ensuring faster adoption. She explained that Galaxy Backbone Limited, a government-owned agency, would deliver the platform and provide technical support.

She said the system is inclusive for all staff from Grade Level 3 upwards. Through integrated tools like GovMail for emails, GovDrive for file access, and GovConnect for virtual meetings, civil servants can manage their tasks digitally.

Walson-Jack added that the platform will fully integrate with the Performance Management System (PMS) by 2026, making approvals traceable and outputs measurable.

Speaking for Galaxy Backbone, Executive Director Finance and Corporate Services, Mohamed Sani Ibrahim, said the platform was built to operate reliably with minimal downtime.

He explained that his team would work closely with all agencies to meet the December 31 deadline.

Walson-Jack said a committee of Permanent Secretaries would be set up to negotiate a unified licensing structure with Galaxy Backbone.

She added that the initiative was vital for national competitiveness, noting, “Digitalization is not for show. It is about building a civil service capable of delivering efficiently and positioning Nigeria to compete globally.” (Daily Trust)