Nigeria Could Make Big Money From the $89.3 Billion Software Testing Industry – Boye Dare

The Chairman of the Nigerian Software Testing Qualifications Board (NGSTQB), Mr. Boye Dare, has said Nigeria has the potential to cash in big from the global software testing industry, which is projected to reach $89.3 billion by 2032.

Dare stated this on Thursday at the TestNigeria 3.0 conference held in Lagos. Noting that India is currently leading the global software testing industry, he said Nigeria also has what it takes to lead.

“If India can do it, Nigeria can do it. We have the talent and potential to bring software testing projects to Nigeria, which will generate significant foreign exchange for the country.” he said.

Software testing is the process of assessing and verifying whether a software or application works as it should.

Software Testing Center in Nigeria

Stressing the importance of software testing in the digital transformation journey in Nigeria, Dare said there are plans to establish the Nigeria Center of Testing Excellence, a national center aimed at improving the quality of software produced in the country.

Dare also cited the development of the Nigerian Software Testing Framework to be introduced by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), which will provide clear guidelines for developers and testers to ensure compliance with global standards.

“At NGSTQB, we are acutely aware of the critical role that software testing plays in the success of digital initiatives.

“Our mission is to ensure that the software that powers Nigeria’s digital economy is reliable, secure and meets global standards. It is for this reason that we are working tirelessly to establish the Nigerian Center of Testing Excellence.” he said.

Standardization of Nigerian software

Speaking at the conference, Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybercrime, Senator Salisu Shuaibu Afolabi, stressed the importance of rigorous software testing in Nigeria to protect national data and drive the country’s digital economy.

Afolabi stressed the need to bring locally developed software up to international standards to optimize its potential and protect Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

He noted that with increasing dependence on software and information technology across the world, Nigeria must prioritize high-quality software development to remain competitive in the digital economy.

He added that focusing on quality will not only provide young people with employment opportunities, but also safeguard critical national data from potential cyber threats.

“The Nigerian software industry has experienced significant growth, particularly in sectors such as fintech, commerce and banking.

“But we need to ensure our locally developed software meets international standards to create jobs, boost the digital economy and enhance national data security.” he said.

Government initiatives

Afolabi highlighted current government initiatives such as the development of the national Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy, the Digital Literacy Framework and the proposed National Digital Economy and E-Government Act.

These initiatives, he said, demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing technology for sustainable development.

He said the government is also working to establish a database of Nigerian artificial intelligence experts to further drive innovation and digital development.

In addition to the government’s efforts, Afolabi called for collaboration between the private sector, academia and government to support an ecosystem that promotes innovation, entrepreneurship and digital literacy.

He said this collaborative effort is crucial to the development of Nigeria’s digital economy.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Hon. Adedeji Olajide also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of software quality assurance in driving Nigeria’s digital economy. He noted that the country’s fintech sector requires robust security measures to protect citizens’ data and prevent cyber threats.

Olajide disclosed that the National Assembly is working on the E-Government and Digital Economy Bill, 2024, which aims to provide a legal framework for the country’s digital economy. A bill currently in second reading is expected to support Nigeria’s digital development, recognizing its potential for economic development and job creation.