By Chinenye Anuforo
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is advancing plans for a comprehensive cybersecurity framework designed to protect telecom infrastructure and boost consumer safety across Nigeria’s digital space.
Expected to take effect in 2026, the framework will help tackle evolving security challenges posed by emerging technologies, while also supporting the country’s drive toward a more secure digital economy.
Speaking at the second stakeholders’ engagement on the framework in Abuja, NCC’s Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Engr. Abraham Oshadami, emphasized the urgent need for a robust strategy to combat increasingly sophisticated cyber threats targeting the telecom sector.
“With the rapid digitalization of services, the surge in data exchange, and the rising complexity of cyberattacks, there has never been a more critical time for an adaptive and inclusive cybersecurity framework,” Oshadami said.
He noted that modern threats now extend beyond the traditional pillars of confidentiality, integrity, and availability, pointing to the impact of geopolitical tensions and the vulnerabilities of both legacy systems and interconnected devices.
“Both state and non-state actors are targeting vital sectors through coordinated cyber and physical attacks. These threats compromise control systems and data integrity, putting not just system performance at risk but also human safety,” he added.
According to him, as the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy, the telecom industry plays a critical role in national development, economic transformation, and social interaction, making it a strategic target for cybercriminals.
The meeting, which followed an initial engagement held earlier in the year, provided updates on progress made and gave stakeholders the opportunity to validate the refined framework, its design principles, and implementation strategies.
Dr. Kazeem Durodoye, Chief Executive Officer of CyberNover and consultant on the project, presented details of the proposed framework to stakeholders, including telecom licensees and key government agencies in the digital economy sector.
Also speaking, NCC’s Head of Cybersecurity and Internet Governance, Babagana Digima, revealed that the initiative is supported by the World Bank. He disclosed that while the framework is expected to be finalized by the third quarter of 2025, full implementation will begin in early 2026.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to an inclusive and collaborative process, stressing that sustainable cybersecurity outcomes can only be achieved through shared responsibility and strong public-private partnerships.
“With continued expertise, insight, and collaboration from all stakeholders, we are confident of delivering a framework that not only secures digital infrastructure but also promotes innovation, competitiveness, and long-term growth,” Oshadami assured.
The forum concluded with stakeholders consolidating a shared understanding of the framework’s strategic importance in strengthening national cybersecurity preparedness and building resilience across the telecom sector.
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