JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
….The Commission urges stakeholders to strengthen Internet security, privacy protection and child safety
Daud Olatunji
The Nigerian Communications Commission has launched an Internet Governance Working Group to strengthen online security, address emerging digital threats and promote accountability in the use of artificial intelligence.
The initiative was unveiled at the first NCC 2026 Internet Governance Symposium, held in Lagos on Thursday, as the commission called for stronger collaboration between stakeholders to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s digital space.
Challenges include online fraud, privacy violations, harmful digital content, artificial intelligence risks, and the protection of vulnerable internet users, especially children.
Speaking at the event, Executive Commissioner for Technical Services, NCC, Abraham Oshadami, said Internet governance has become increasingly important as digital technologies continue to impact communication, education, employment and access to essential services.
Oshadami, who delivered the keynote address on behalf of the commission’s Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Aminu Maida, said decisions regarding the Internet go beyond technology and connectivity.
“They affect the opportunities, trust, safety and rights of the people who use them,” he said.
He stressed the need for Nigeria to play an active role in discussions on Internet governance, noting that the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence has created new opportunities alongside concerns over liability, privacy, cybercrime and online safety.
According to him, the scale and complexity of these challenges require coordinated efforts in the telecommunications sector and other relevant sectors.
Oshadami cautioned against relying on individual institutions to address challenges in isolation, underlining the need for sustained engagement between regulators, operators, technical experts and other stakeholders.
One of the highlights of the symposium was the formal launch of the Internet Governance Working Group, designed to provide a permanent platform for dialogue and cooperation beyond the annual event.
The group is expected to identify priority issues, strengthen stakeholder engagement and promote coordinated responses to emerging challenges in Nigeria’s digital environment.
The commission said the initiative aims to move discussions on internet governance beyond political conversations towards practical measures that can improve Nigerians’ online experience.
The working group is also expected to provide a forum where stakeholders can clarify their responsibilities and develop common approaches to promote a safer and more responsible digital environment.
The Executive Commissioner also highlighted the NCC’s Internet Code of Conduct 2026 as a key framework to promote responsible online conduct and protect internet users.
He said the effectiveness of the code will depend on clear expectations, meaningful engagement with stakeholders and consistent implementation.
Oshadami also drew attention to the Cyber Resilience Framework for Nigeria’s communications sector, which aims to strengthen the security and resilience of infrastructure supporting digital services across the country.
He said both initiatives reflect the commission’s responsibility to ensure that Nigerians can access and use digital services with greater confidence.
The commission argued that effective internet governance is essential to building public trust, protecting users and securing the infrastructure underpinning Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
Oshadami urged participants to contribute frankly and constructively to the symposium discussions, inviting them to leave with a clearer understanding of their respective responsibilities and a shared commitment to implementing the agreed priorities.
He expressed the commission’s appreciation to the participants and declared open the first NCC 2026 Internet Governance Symposium, urging sustained cooperation towards a more secure digital future for Nigeria.
The symposium, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, on October 15, brought together representatives from telecommunications and internet governance organisations.
Among those present were Dewole Ajao, board member of the African Network Information Center; Seyi Onasanya, Chief Operating Officer, Nigeria Internet Registration Association; Mary Uduma, Coordinator of the West African Internet Governance Forum; Tony Emoekpere, President, Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria; and Atinuke Ibrahim, representing the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria.
‘Want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need advertising for a product, service or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Please donate any amount HERE
‘
