The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has told stakeholders in the telecommunications industry to make an early assessment of future and emerging technologies beyond the fifth generation (5G), in a bid to mitigate the risks these technologies will present in future.
“Evolution And Future Risk Management In The Telecoms Industry: Harnessing Emerging Technologies And Trends.”
Speaking at the maiden edition of “Telecoms Industry Risk Management Conference,” a gathering that brings together various stakeholders that includes risk experts, academia, financial institutions, and professionals in telecommunications, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO)Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida disclosed that in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the telecommunications industry finds itself at the forefront of innovation, shaping the way we communicate, connect, and conduct business. “As we navigate this dynamic environment, the need for effective risk management becomes increasingly paramount. Today, we stand at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, where emerging technologies and trends present both unprecedented opportunities and challenges.
While we discuss the current landscape of 5G networks, which boast of wider attack surface due to the increased number of connected devices and denser network infrastructure, it is imperative to even cast our gaze into the future. We are witnessing the dawn of 6G technology, the next frontier in wireless communication. With promises of even faster speeds, lower latency, and groundbreaking applications, 6G has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience connectivity. However, with this advancement comes the responsibility to address new risks, from cybersecurity threats to ethical considerations, ensuring that we pave the way for a secure and inclusive digital future.”
As we contemplate the possibilities of a future 7G technology, Maida noted that stakeholders must acknowledge that with each generational leap, the country faces not only technological advancements but also a fresh set of challenges. He said anticipating and managing risks associated with 7G will require collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to ensure the seamless integration of this technology into interconnected world.
Maida observed that in addition to the evolution of connectivity, Nigeria must consider the implications of emerging technologies such as quantum technologies, advanced artificial intelligence, and Block Chain technologies. According to him, these trends, when harnessed effectively, hold the potential to transform our industry positively. However, they also introduce complexities that demand careful consideration in our risk management strategies.
He reiterated NCC’s commitment to fostering an environment that encourages innovation while prioritising the security and stability of our telecom infrastructure. “As we navigate through 5G and the uncharted territory of the next generations of wireless technologies, collaborative efforts among regulators, industry players, and other stakeholders become even more crucial for sharing best practices, threat intelligence, resources and implementing robust risk management strategies. We should therefore move beyond mere compliance and reactive measures, and instead, harness the power of these new technologies and trends to build a resilient and future-proof industry.”
He further spoke on the need to build a risk awareness culture. “As an industry, we must empower our people with the knowledge and skills to proactively identify and report risks and embed security awareness and risk management practices throughout our business processes. Emerging technologies such as AI should be leveraged to generate data-driven insights needed to predict, detect, and respond to risks in real-time. We should also monitor evolving threats and vulnerabilities on a continuous basis and streamline incidence response processes to build a resilient telecom industry.”
The EVC challenged stakeholders, not to only address the challenges posed by current technologies, but also to anticipate and prepare for the opportunities and risks associated with the evolution towards 6G and beyond. “Together, we can ensure that the telecoms industry not only adapts to change but thrives at the forefront of technological innovation, he posited.
In his welcome address the Head, Corporate Planning, Strategy & Risk Management (HCPSRM), Mr. Kelechi Nwankwo, noted that the conference is a testament to the Commission’s collective commitment towards recognizing the evolving risks and challenges being faced, while embracing the immense opportunities emerging technologies and trends bring. “The telecoms industry has gone through remarkable transformations, and it is our responsibility to stay informed, prepared, and proactive in managing the potential risks ahead.”
