In a bid to underscore the importance of effective communication in national security, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has emphasized that telecom services play a crucial role in addressing issues that require swift and reliable communication. According to Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice-Chairman of NCC, achieving national security without effective telecommunication is virtually impossible.
During an interactive session with the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters’ Association (NITRA) in Abuja, Maida, represented by Mrs. Nnena Ukoha, highlighted the NCC’s resolve to collaborate with security agencies to arrest and prosecute individuals responsible for vandalizing Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) across Nigeria. “Anyone found liable for damaging or disrupting CNII will be prosecuted going forward,” he warned, emphasizing the commission’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure.
The NCC has begun to stress the need for an order to safeguard these infrastructures, recognizing their critical role in service provision. Telecommunication services have become vital to all aspects of the economy, and any disruption to these services can have far-reaching consequences on socio-economic activities. A stable telecommunication infrastructure is essential for every sector of the economy, from national security to public welfare.
Maida noted that telecommunication infrastructure plays a vital role in national security, particularly in the face of increasing cyber threats and vulnerabilities that can damage and disrupt communication infrastructure. Moreover, telecommunication contributes to the growth of a digital society, providing an enabling environment for socialization and access to essential services. Without a robust telecommunication infrastructure, the public cannot fully enjoy these services.
The President of NITRA, Blessing Olaifa, expressed optimism for a more robust engagement between the NCC management and the media, highlighting the importance of collaboration in promoting effective communication and national security. As the NCC continues to work towards protecting critical infrastructure and promoting effective telecommunication, it is clear that the role of telecom services in ensuring national security cannot be overstated. The commission’s efforts to address the challenges facing the sector and promote a stable telecommunication infrastructure are crucial in today’s digital age.
