Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is set for a major cybersecurity upgrade as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) intensifies efforts to introduce a comprehensive framework that will protect digital infrastructure and consumers from increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
The initiative, which is expected to come into force by 2026, is being developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders and global partners, including the World Bank, and is designed to safeguard critical infrastructure while bolstering Nigeria’s digital economy.
Rising Cyber Threats and a Shifting Security Landscape
The urgency behind the framework is no coincidence. With over 220 million mobile subscribers and a telecom industry that contributes more than 14% to Nigeria’s GDP, the sector has become both an economic engine and a prime target for cybercriminals.
At the second phase of the cybersecurity framework development meeting held in Abuja, NCC’s Executive Commissioner for Technical Services (ECTS), Mr. Abraham Oshadami, highlighted the dangers confronting the industry.
“Both state and non-state actors are targeting essential sectors—including telecommunications—through coordinated cyber and physical attacks. These frequently undermine control systems and data integrity, putting operational technology and, in some cases, human safety at risk,” Oshadami cautioned.
He explained that the traditional cybersecurity focus on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA) is no longer sufficient. The new framework must also address human safety, geopolitical risks, and vulnerabilities tied to emerging technologies and legacy systems.
Framework Tailored for Nigeria’s Digital Future
The NCC says the framework is not just a defensive mechanism—it is part of a wider strategy to support innovation, competitiveness, and industry growth in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Head of Public Affairs at the Commission, disclosed that the framework will serve as a long-term blueprint for telecom operators, helping them manage risks while boosting consumer confidence in digital services.
“The implementation timeline is set for 2026, but groundwork and stakeholder validation will be completed before the end of 2025,” Ukoha confirmed.
At the Abuja session, Dr. Kazeem Durodoye, CEO of CyberNover and lead consultant on the project, walked stakeholders through the design of the proposed framework. His presentation covered its architecture, guiding principles, and implementation strategies.
The session was attended by representatives of telecom licensees, government agencies, and digital economy stakeholders, creating what NCC described as “a shared platform for refining Nigeria’s cybersecurity strategy.”
Global Standards, Local Realities
Industry analysts note that while cybersecurity frameworks are common in advanced markets, Nigeria’s approach is unique because it must balance international standards with the country’s local realities—from widespread use of legacy systems to the rise of mobile money platforms.
Mr. Babagana Digima, NCC’s Head of Cybersecurity and Internet Governance, added that the World Bank’s support is a sign of global confidence in Nigeria’s digital transition.
“With the increasing reliance on telecom networks for financial transactions, e-learning, health services, and government operations, securing this sector is equivalent to securing the entire economy,” Digima said.
He confirmed that the framework will be finalized in the third quarter of 2025 and fully deployed in early 2026.
Why This Matters
Cybercrime is one of the fastest-growing threats to African economies. According to a 2024 report by the African Union, the continent loses over $4 billion annually to cyberattacks, with Nigeria ranked among the most targeted countries due to its fast-growing digital adoption.
For Nigeria, where telecom networks serve as the backbone of financial inclusion and digital innovation, the stakes are particularly high. Attacks on telecom infrastructure could paralyze services, compromise national security, and undermine economic growth.
By advancing this framework, the NCC hopes to place Nigeria ahead of the curve, ensuring that cybersecurity resilience grows in tandem with digital expansion.
Looking Ahead
As consultations continue, stakeholders have emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in sustaining cybersecurity efforts. Oshadami reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to inclusivity:
“With sustained collaboration, we can co-create a framework that not only secures our digital infrastructure but also drives innovation, competitiveness, and long-term growth,” he said.
The final version of the cybersecurity framework is expected to be a landmark policy document—setting standards for how telecom operators, government agencies, and private companies respond to cyber risks. If successfully implemented, it could make Nigeria a regional leader in digital security while reassuring millions of telecom subscribers that their data and connectivity are safe.
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