The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta has restated its commitment towards ensuring that the Internet is safer to use by highlighting some of the measures it is taking to ensure the safety of Nigeria’s cyberspace.
The measures, according to the Commission are a collaboration with relevant stakeholders to embark on a nationwide cybersecurity awareness; establishment of a Cyber Security Incidence Response Team (CSIRT) Centre and collaboration with relevant security agencies in the development of the National Cyber Security Policy.
Others are the development of a technical framework for the use of social media networks in Nigeria; development of contents for consumer awareness and collaboration with stakeholders on the development of data privacy and protection act; and carrying out a comprehensive risk and vulnerability assessment of the communications infrastructure and the industry.
These measures were highlighted at the maiden annual cybersecurity summit, which was organized by the Commission in Abuja yesterday.
The cybersecurity summit was designed to provide a platform for discussion on developing joint coordination for incidence response for the communication industry, introducing cyber insurance, bridging the cyber workforce gap, strengthening national cooperation, exchange of information, and development of comprehensive strategies that will address the cybersecurity challenges confronting the communications industry in Nigeria.
The EVC stated that in addressing cybercrimes and boosting cybersecurity, technical measures and appropriate legal instruments must be put in place to enhance the resilience and integrity of ICT infrastructure and also to safeguard our activities in cyberspace.
The EVC also informed the audience at the conference that the Commission will soon commence a multi-stakeholder process for the development of an Industry Wide Obligation of Minimum Cyber Security Provisions which will apply to all operators.
The plenary session of the conference was followed with four-panel discussions focused on: Developing a Joint Coordination for Incidence Response for the Communications Industry; Developing Cyber Insurance Product Stream: Barriers and Incentives; and Regulating Cyber Security Service Provision, and Bridging the Cyber Workforce Gap.