In a significant move to modernize government operations, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has officially abandoned paper-based processes. The Ministry launched the 1GOV Enterprise Content Management (ECM) System on 19 December 2025, marking a decisive shift to a fully integrated, technology-driven platform.
A Landmark for Digital Governance
This initiative is a key part of the Federal Government's commitment to digital governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. The launch aims to fundamentally improve service delivery, enhance transparency, and strengthen accountability within the Ministry.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, hailed the system as a landmark achievement. He stated that efficient data management and streamlined workflows are critical for a technical ministry like his. The 1GOV system is expected to enhance data handling, preserve institutional memory, and significantly reduce operational costs.
Transforming Public Administration
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, endorsed the initiative as a transformative step for public administration. She emphasized that the Ministry's mandate on water supply, sanitation, and irrigation directly touches every Nigerian household.
Walson-Jack outlined the system's capabilities, which include:
- Secure digital records management
- Automated workflows and electronic approvals
- Real-time collaboration across agencies
- Improved interoperability between MDAs
Following the launch, she directed that all official correspondence must be processed through approved digital channels, cementing the paperless policy.
Commitment to Efficiency and Sustainability
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Emanso Umobong, highlighted the practical benefits. She explained that the system will eliminate workflow inefficiencies, prevent document loss, and bolster accountability. Dr. Umobong urged staff to fully embrace the platform and commit to ongoing training to ensure its long-term success and sustainability.
Representing Galaxy Backbone Limited, Mr. Akintayo Ayodele-Bamisaye, the Managing Director/CEO, described the launch as a historic milestone. He stressed the role of such digitization in centralizing government information and strengthening Nigeria's digital sovereignty.
During a technical presentation, Galaxy Backbone's Mr. Ayodeji Bakare detailed how the paperless service portal will promote seamless operations, cut costs, and enhance document traceability. This move is seen as a decisive step toward a fully digital public service in Nigeria.
