The Internet Society, Nigeria Chapter, has called for the establishment of robust regulatory frameworks to govern the rapidly evolving Metaverse.
The President of the Internet Society, Nigeria Chapter, Engr. Kunle Olorundare made the call in his opening address during the 2024 Nigerian School on Internet Governance, held recently at the Center for Information and Communication Engineering at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
He believes the call becomes necessary and urgent for effective regulations to ensure the safe and inclusive growth of this new digital frontier.
Engr. Olorundare emphasized that current laws often lag behind technological advancements, creating a complex landscape for governance and compliance. He pointed out that content moderation within virtual spaces is particularly challenging, requiring careful oversight to prevent harassment and misinformation.
“While the metaverse offers exciting opportunities for innovation and engagement across multiple sectors, addressing these challenges will be crucial in creating a safe and inclusive environment for all users,” he stated.
The Internet Society’s call for effective regulatory frameworks comes at a time when the metaverse is gaining significant traction and transforming various industries. From immersive entertainment experiences to revolutionary e-commerce platforms and innovative education solutions, the metaverse has the potential to revolutionize how we interact and conduct business.
However, its growth is accompanied by concerns about privacy, digital divide, and security risks.
By establishing appropriate regulatory frameworks, the Internet Society believes that Nigeria can harness the potential of the metaverse while mitigating its risks and ensuring a safe and inclusive digital environment for all citizens.