Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, has dismissed fears that the NITA Bill will require all ICT professionals and technology businesses to obtain government licences before operating.

The minister said public concerns were based on misunderstandings of earlier drafts of the legislation.

“If you offer a service to the government, you would need to be licensed and certified by NITA,” he said on JoyNews.

According to Sam George, the requirement is intended for firms seeking government contracts, particularly those handling sensitive public-sector technology infrastructure.

He stressed that independent software developers, website designers and app creators working with private clients would not be affected.

“If you’re working somewhere in your garage building applications for private companies, NITA has nothing to do with you,” he stated.

The minister said government certification is necessary to ensure standards for companies entrusted with critical national digital systems.