Technology
NCC Moves to Tackle Internet Fraud, AI Risks, Data Privacy Concerns
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched an Internet Governance Working Group to strengthen stakeholder collaboration on online safety, artificial intelligence (AI) accountability, data privacy, internet fraud and the protection of vulnerable internet users.
The initiative was unveiled on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the inaugural NCC Internet Governance Symposium held at Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Lagos, where the Commission called for practical measures to address emerging challenges in Nigeria’s digital environment.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Abraham Oshadami, who delivered the opening address on behalf of the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, said internet governance goes beyond technology and connectivity.
“They affect opportunity, trust, security and the rights of the people who use it,” he said, stressing the need for Nigeria to participate actively in internet governance discussions.
Oshadami noted that the rapid growth of artificial intelligence was changing how people learn, work, communicate and access services, while raising concerns about harmful content, online fraud, privacy, accountability and child protection.
He said these challenges required cooperation among stakeholders within and outside the communications sector, adding that no single institution could address them effectively in isolation.
The Executive Commissioner highlighted the NCC’s Internet Code of Practice (ICOP) 2026 as a framework for promoting a safer and more responsible online environment.
He stated that its effectiveness would depend on clear expectations, meaningful stakeholder engagement and consistent implementation.
He also drew attention to the Cyber Resilience Framework for the Nigeria Communication Sector (CRF-NCS), which is designed to strengthen the security and resilience of infrastructure supporting digital services.
According to him, the two initiatives reflect the Commission’s responsibility to ensure that Nigerians can use the internet with greater confidence.
The newly launched Internet Governance Working Group is expected to provide a continuing platform for engagement beyond the symposium, enabling stakeholders to identify practical priorities, sustain dialogue and coordinate responses to issues affecting Nigeria’s digital space.
Oshadami urged participants to contribute candidly and constructively, encouraging them to leave the symposium with a clearer understanding of their respective responsibilities and a shared commitment to action.
He expressed the Commission’s appreciation to participants and declared the inaugural symposium open, calling for sustained cooperation towards a safer, more secure and responsible digital future for Nigeria.
Among those present were Dewole Ajao, Board Member of the African Network Information Centre; Seyi Onasanya, Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association; Mary Uduma, Coordinator of the West Africa Internet Governance Forum; Tony Emoekpere, President of the Association of Telecom Companies of Nigeria; and Atinuke Ibrahim, representing the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria.