Business Post Contributor
By Ashemiriogwa Emmanuel
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reassured the nation that it will continue to ensure cyber security towards a healthier and safe digital economy, which is free of cybercrime.
The regulatory authority noted that the evolution of technology, which has brought about advancement in the way the digital world operates, has also introduced new dimensions of cybercrimes, identity theft, social media, and fake news campaigns.
The executive vice-chairman of the commission, Mr Umar Danbatta, who said this on Wednesday at the 2021 annual cybersecurity conference in Abuja, mentioned that only a healthy digital environment can guarantee the privacy and integrity of digital data as this can be achieved with trust and confidentiality.
Mr Danbatta, represented by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholders Management at NCC, Mr Adeleke Adewolu, was speaking on the theme Building Trust in the Digital Economy through Cybersecurity and Sensitization on the Implementation of the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (NCPS) 2021.
According to him, “The NCC is at the forefront of ensuring a sound cyber security culture that is built on people, processes, and technology. Launching the Nigeria communications sectoral Cyber Security Response Team (CERT) is a testament to our resolve to promote a healthy digital environment.
“Our various cybersecurity awareness initiatives and campaigns are helping the public understand the risks in the digital space and how to reduce the vulnerability opportunities that adversaries can benefit from.”
He averred that the regulatory authority, along with external partners, as well as other stakeholders all have a role to play that is pivotal to ensuring adherence to sound cybersecurity culture and hygiene, adding that this collective effort will continuously boost trust and confidence in Nigeria’s digital space.
Speaking on the importance of the event which was organized in partnership with the office of national security adviser (ONSA), Mr Danbatta said that the conference complements the federal government’s goal in promoting cyber security and fostering trust.
Earlier this week, the commission revealed its plan to engage stakeholders on the Fifth Generation spectrum auction towards the implementation of the 5G network in Nigeria.
The agency, in the disclosure, said that it will engage with the relevant industry stakeholders to examine the draft Information Memorandum for the upcoming auction of the 3.5 gigahertz spectrum band.
