The Nigerian Computer Society (NCS) has expressed concerns over the Federal Government’s decision to replace Remita Payment Service Ltd. with the Treasury Management and Revenue Assurance System (TMRAS).
Concerns Over Indigenous IT Firms
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday, NCS President Dr. Sirajo Aliyu highlighted Remita’s role in providing uninterrupted payment services to the Federal Government, employing a 100% Nigerian workforce.
“We are concerned that this decision may send the wrong signal to other indigenous IT firms,” Aliyu said. “The TSA project was a software-driven IT solution delivered entirely by a Nigerian company, and its success has been globally recognized.”
Background: FG’s Transition to TMRAS
The Federal Government recently launched TMRAS to take over the functions of Remita in managing the Treasury Single Account (TSA).
- Phase 1 (March 4, 2025): Covers Naira-denominated payments, automatic tax deductions, and improved financial oversight.
- Phase 2 (June 1, 2025): Introduces foreign exchange transactions, MDA ERP integration, and a budget module for non-budgetary MDAs.
The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) assured the public that Remita would still function as a CBN-approved payment gateway, despite the TMRAS rollout.
Risks of Abrupt Transition
Aliyu acknowledged the government’s right to implement changes but stressed the need for extensive discussions with stakeholders before making such a shift.
He warned that abruptly replacing Remita could disrupt financial operations, create IT sector uncertainties, and potentially lead to job losses for Nigerian tech professionals.
Call for Government Reconsideration
NCS Vice President Prof. Charles Onyeukwu echoed these concerns, noting that Remita was selected through a rigorous process involving both local and international companies.
He suggested an alternative approach where Remita could provide an Application Programming Interface (API) for additional service providers rather than being sidelined entirely.
“We urge the government to reconsider this decision and explore a more inclusive solution that benefits all stakeholders while sustaining the TSA’s efficiency,” Onyeukwu stated.
The NCS insists that preserving Nigeria’s indigenous IT solutions is crucial for the country’s technological growth and economic stability.
