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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the country to adhere to regulatory frameworks put in place by the Commission to guarantee the security and safety of their networks for telecom consumers.

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Commission, Prof. Umar Danbatta, made this directive at the 2023 annual Nigeria DigitalSense Forum held in Lagos. The event, centered around Internet Governance for Development, provided an opportunity for Danbatta to address stakeholders and emphasize the importance of these regulatory frameworks.

One of the key frameworks highlighted by Danbatta is the Internet Code of Practice (ICP) for the telecom industry. This code is crucial in protecting the rights of Internet users to access an open internet and offers clear guidelines to Internet Access Service Providers on the use of traffic management practices. Additionally, the Internet Code outlines the obligations of Internet Access Service Providers regarding the protection of consumers’ data, handling offensive and potentially-harmful content, as well as safeguarding minors and vulnerable audiences online.

Danbatta emphasized that by upholding the tenets of the Internet Governance Code, the Commission, in collaboration with other stakeholders, can ensure network safety and protect telecom consumers online.

The theme of the event, “5G: Data Governance, Safety, and Security in Nigeria,” prompted Danbatta to stress the significance of building robust legal and regulatory frameworks to enhance data governance in the country. He highlighted that the ICP provides the necessary framework in this regard.

However, the EVC also underlined the importance of strict adherence to industry frameworks, particularly for telecom licensees such as MNOs and ISPs, in order to establish effective governance in internet delivery services.

Representing the EVC, Dr. Chidi Diugwu, Head of New Media and Information Security at NCC, reiterated the need to prioritize privacy, data integrity, and online trust as new technologies, like the Fifth Generation (5G), are deployed in Nigeria. With the large volume and speed of data generated by 5G, it is vital to prioritize consumer privacy, transparency, and ethical data use. This approach will unlock the full potential of 5G technology and promote innovation in Nigeria.

Danbatta further reminded licensees of their responsibility, as outlined in the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, to prevent their network facilities or services from being used for the commission of any offense under the law. He emphasized that licensees must collaborate with the Commission to fulfill their legal and regulatory obligations for effective internet governance in Nigeria.

The directive from NCC serves as a reminder to telcos of their duty to ensure network security and safeguard the welfare of their consumers. It also highlights the Commission’s commitment to establishing a safe and trustworthy digital environment in Nigeria.