The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has organized training on the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in modern warfare for cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). This initiative is part of the NCC’s effort to integrate ICT into Nigeria’s military infrastructure and to enhance the armed forces’ capabilities in contemporary conflict.
The Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, Prof. Umar Danbata, disclosed the program during a visit by Officers Cadet Course 72 of the NDA’s Department of Computer Science to the commission in Abuja on Monday. Danbata emphasized that no country or military institution should take electronic combat readiness for granted and urged the Nigerian military to do more in this area. He noted that Nigeria’s potential in cyberspace warfare will depend on the ideas generated by the cadets, adding that wars can be fought and won in cyberspace without physical combat. “Electronics combat readiness entails destroying the enemy without physically engaging them. The software you invent can be tested and applied to locate enemy positions, cut the enemy off from command and control centres, and inflict maximum damage,” he said.
Danbata encouraged the cadets to explore software innovations and develop applications or platforms that enhance the safety and security of Nigeria’s cyberspace against both external and internal threats. He highlighted the steady growth of the telecoms industry, which contributes significantly to Nigeria’s GDP of about $335 billion—far ahead of South Africa—and noted that the NCC regulates all activities in the sector. However, he stressed that the discussion would focus on the promising careers awaiting the cadets at the NDA and how they can create software to achieve electronic combat readiness for Nigeria in the near future.
Further, the NCC chief affirmed that the commission would support the cadets’ innovative concepts for safeguarding the country’s cyberspace, as cybersecurity has become a crucial element in winning modern battles. Danbata also mentioned the NCC’s vital role in Nigeria’s Joint Intelligence Squad, established by President Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retired) to address national security challenges. He urged the cadets to prioritize cybersecurity in their research projects, especially concerning data privacy, protection, and national security.
Dr. Evwiekparefe Abraham, head of the NDA’s Computer Science Department, led the cadets to the NCC to foster collaboration and familiarize them with the commission’s operations. He praised the Executive Vice Chairman and the commission’s management for their plans to provide internet facilities for the NDA and noted that the Commandant of the NDA expressed gratitude for the commission’s support of the military institution.
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