In a bid to provide sure footing for cybersecurity practice in Nigeria, and a viable structure that will secure the future of the Communications sector, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled an industry Cybersecurity Framework plan.
The CEO/Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, while speaking during the cybersecurity framework development meeting, stated that the commission is currently working on developing a comprehensive cybersecurity framework for the industry to ensure the safety of the communication sector.
Emphasizing the crucial role of the Communications sector as an enabler of national development and economic transformation, the EVC stressed the importance of strengthening the industry to prevent the country from being susceptible to cybercriminals and other malicious actors.
He noted that the growing reliance on national data access on digital infrastructure has made it mandatory to develop a sector-wide cybersecurity framework, which involves engaging all relevant stakeholders in the industry to build a secure and resilient communication ecosystem in Nigeria. Highlighting the need for a cybersecurity framework, he said:
“With the increasing complexity of our digital ecosystem comes heightened vulnerability. Cyber threats, phishing, and insider threats are all evolving rapidly.
The Techeconomy.ng reports that communications infrastructure, which forms the core of Nigeria’s Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), remains a high-value target for cybercriminals and hostile actors.
It is against this background that the Nigerian Communications Commission has initiated the development of a comprehensive cybersecurity framework for the communications sector.”
According to the EVC, the primary objectives of the framework include promoting a unified and resilient cybersecurity posture across the communications industry, enhancing the protection of telecom infrastructure from cyberattacks, safeguarding consumer data, and ensuring alignment with national cybersecurity strategies.
Chairman of the cybersecurity framework development, Babagana Digima, highlighted that the cybersecurity framework is being developed to provide a unified framework that aligns with the country’s needs and brings together all the tools and activities in addressing cybersecurity, providing a formal point of reference.
The development of the cybersecurity framework is currently in its early stages, with plans for further interactive sessions to refine and enhance its provisions.
The sessions will provide a platform for constructive dialogue, ensuring the framework is practicable.
