The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has emphasized the need for collective action to build resilient digital infrastructure in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 2nd edition of the Strategic Stakeholders Meeting of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Maida highlighted the importance of protecting critical national information infrastructure (CNII) to drive economic growth and development pointing out that the Presidential Order designating telecommunications infrastructure as CNII is a landmark recognition of the sector’s critical role in national stability and digital sovereignty.
Dr Maida emphasized the need for collaboration among stakeholders, including telecom operators, government agencies, security forces, and communities, to protect CNII and drive Nigeria’s digital ambitions.
He further noted that NCC is committed to building a resilient digital infrastructure that can withstand threats and disruptions, ensuring the continuity of critical services and economic stability.
The EVC called for public awareness campaigns to sensitize citizens to treat communications infrastructure as national assets and promote community-based surveillance programs and added that the commission has taken several steps to operationalize the Presidential Order, including Comprehensive Infrastructure Mapping by Initiating a nationwide mapping of critical telecom assets to prioritize protection and investment as well as developing a robust plan to prevent unauthorized access, vandalism, and cyberattacks, in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and stakeholder Engagements.
Dr Maida outlined a five-pillar approach to building resilient digital infrastructure, including, Public Awareness and Community Ownership, UImproved Inter-Stakeholder Collaboration, Information Sharing, Streamlined Acquisition and Permit Processes, Strengthened Enforcement and Deterrence Mechanisms.
The NCC’s commitment to building resilient digital infrastructure is a critical step towards driving Nigeria’s digital economy and ensuring national stability. By working together, stakeholders can create a secure and inclusive digital ecosystem that benefits all Nigerians and positions the country as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
Reporting by Chioma Ezike