NCC hails CNII order as key to securing Nigeria’s digital economy

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has lauded the Federal Government’s designation of the telecommunications sector as part of the country’s Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), emphasizing its pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria’s digital and communications systems.

The move, formalized through an Executive Order signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is seen as a decisive step toward securing the backbone of the nation’s economy, public safety, and national security.

Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the NCC, underscored the importance of this designation during the Critical National Information Infrastructure Protection and Resilience Workshop, held recently in Abuja by the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

In his keynote address, Maida described the Executive Order as a long-awaited remedy for persistent challenges in the telecoms industry, including frequent fibre cuts, vandalism, and restricted access to infrastructure.

“This framework will allow for collaborative efforts to protect our national assets and foster secure, resilient communication networks for all Nigerians,” he stated.

Maida emphasized that the Executive Order would enable partnerships between regulators, operators, and stakeholders to address these issues collaboratively.

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The NCC extended appreciation to President Tinubu, National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. ’Bosun Tijani, for their leadership in advancing the CNII initiative.

Maida noted that their commitment would bolster economic stability and support the growth of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

In addition to financial losses from vandalism and network disruptions, Maida highlighted the broader implications for Nigeria’s digital economy, stating:

“Telecommunications infrastructure is indispensable for the functioning of our economy and the safety of our citizens. Protecting these assets is not just a priority; it is a necessity.”

The NCC is committed to raising awareness, strengthening partnerships, and fostering dialogue with stakeholders to ensure the resilience of Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure.

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The workshop series initiated by the NCCC is expected to lay the groundwork for actionable steps in implementing the CNII framework.

Industry analysts have welcomed the designation as a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s cybersecurity posture and boosting investor confidence. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwu, a digital economy consultant, remarked, “This initiative provides the necessary legal and operational framework to address long-standing vulnerabilities in the telecom sector.”

Similarly, cybersecurity expert Amina Yusuf stressed the need for public-private collaboration to protect CNII assets, stating, “The involvement of stakeholders across government and industry is crucial to achieving the resilience envisioned by the Executive Order.”

With the CNII framework now in place, the focus shifts to its implementation. The NCC has pledged to work closely with industry operators, property owners, and government agencies to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure.

This milestone is expected to pave the way for enhanced connectivity, improved service quality, and a more secure digital economy.