The Nigerian Software Testing Qualifications Board (NGSTQB) has expressed its support for the National Software Testing Guideline introduced by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The guideline requires software developed, modified, integrated or deployed for use in Nigeria to undergo thorough testing before operational deployment. This move aims to address a significant gap in Nigeria's digital economy, where software failures have caused disruptions to critical platforms.
The National Software Testing Guideline applies to both public and private sectors, with the depth of testing determined by a system's risk, data sensitivity, public exposure and potential consequences of failure. The guideline covers functional and non-functional testing, including security, performance, usability, compatibility, reliability, maintainability and portability. This comprehensive approach seeks to ensure that software used in Nigeria is secure, reliable and fit for purpose.
NGSTQB, a professional body focused on software testing standards and certification in Nigeria, believes that the guideline will help mitigate the risks associated with software failures. According to the President of NGSTQB, Mr. Boye Dare, software has become the invisible infrastructure of Nigeria's economy, supporting critical services such as banking, identity and public-service platforms. Therefore, it is essential that this infrastructure is properly tested to prevent failed transactions, exposed data and public services disruptions.
The NGSTQB has outlined five key positions in support of the guideline, including full backing for its objectives and implementation. The board also aligns with NITDA's aim of ensuring software meets defined standards of quality, security and performance. Furthermore, NGSTQB advocates for independent, competent and accountable testing of systems whose failure could materially affect citizens or critical infrastructure.
A critical aspect of NGSTQB's support is its call for proportionate, risk-based regulation. The board argues that assurance effort should match potential harm rather than applying uniformly across all software. This approach would enable a more effective and efficient enforcement of the guideline, minimizing the burden on low-risk software while ensuring that high-risk systems receive thorough testing.
The NGSTQB also emphasizes the importance of treating compliance as a market-enabling investment rather than a late-stage certification exercise. By doing so, the software industry can prioritize quality, security and performance, ultimately contributing to a more robust and reliable digital economy in Nigeria. This approach is expected to benefit both the public and private sectors, as well as citizens who rely on critical services.
The enforcement of the National Software Testing Guideline is expected to have a positive impact on Nigeria's digital economy. With the NGSTQB's support, NITDA can move forward with implementing the guideline, ensuring that software used in Nigeria meets the required standards. Key points include:
Key points
- NGSTQB supports the National Software Testing Guideline introduced by NITDA.
- The guideline requires software to undergo thorough testing before deployment in Nigeria.
- NGSTQB advocates for a risk-based, tiered model for enforcement.
