NCC Unveils New Cybersecurity Strategy to Safeguard Nigeria’s Telecom Sector

By Achimi muktar

In a bold move to outsmart cybercriminals and secure Nigeria’s digital backbone, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced the development of a groundbreaking cybersecurity framework set to transform the protection of Nigeria’s vast telecom sector.

The initiative, unveiled during a high-level regulatory meeting in Lagos on Wednesday, aims to fortify the nation’s telecom infrastructure — which now boasts over 172 million active lines and 141 million internet users — against the rising tide of cyber threats.1

Represented by Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner for Technical Services, NCC boss Dr. Aminu Maida emphasized the massive digital expansion Nigeria has experienced since 2001, and the growing vulnerability that comes with it.

“To counter these growing dangers, the NCC initiated the framework’s development with clear objectives,” Maida said. These include:

Building a unified, industry-wide cybersecurity posture

Strengthening infrastructure and protecting consumer privacy

Aligning with global cybersecurity standards

Enhancing incident response capabilities and proactive risk mitigation

Under the proposed framework, telecom operators will be required to meet strict cybersecurity standards. These include:

Mandatory incident reporting

Defined risk management protocols

Active collaboration with regulators

Strict compliance with Cybercrime Act (2015) and Data Protection Act (2023)

“These are not suggestions,” said Oshadami. “Cybersecurity is no longer optional — it is a mandatory requirement for all players in the telecom ecosystem.”

Dr. Kazeem Durodoye, CEO of cybersecurity firm Cybernovr, warned that with new tech like Open RAN and network virtualization, traditional approaches won’t cut it anymore. He stressed the need for:

Quantum-resilient cryptography

AI- and ML-based threat detection

Tiered regulation based on data sensitivity and criticality

“The threat landscape has evolved beyond recognition. Our defenses must evolve too,” he said.

Babagana Digima, Chairman of the Cybersecurity Framework Committee, outlined next steps: a baseline cybersecurity audit of the telecom sector, followed by a review of the drafted framework by industry stakeholders before it becomes policy.

“This strategy is not just about regulation. It’s about building trust in Nigeria’s digital future,” Digima said.

The commission promised that the final framework would be made public for industry-wide review in the coming weeks.

If you’re one of the 172 million Nigerians using a phone or browsing online, this cybersecurity overhaul is being built to protect your data, your privacy, and your peace of mind. The digital battlefield is real — but with this move, Nigeria’s defenses are getting a much-needed upgrade.
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