In a landmark move to bolster Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework, the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) has officially unveiled Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) for the .ng domain.
This strategic deployment marks a significant leap forward in securing the nation’s digital infrastructure, positioning Nigeria among the ranks of globally forward-looking nations committed to a resilient and trustworthy digital economy.
DNSSEC acts as a vital security layer for the internet, introducing cryptographic verification to the Domain Name System by preventing cybercriminals from intercepting traffic or redirecting users to fraudulent and malicious websites. This technology ensures that anyone visiting a .ng domain is reliably connected to the authentic destination.
For Nigeria, this is more than a technical upgrade; it is a critical advancement for economic stability and national security. The implementation is poised to provide essential protections for sectors reliant on secure infrastructure, including financial services & fintech, government platforms, e-commerce & telecommunications.
The initiative aligns with broader national digital transformation goals supported by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
“The successful deployment of DNSSEC on the .ng domain represents a defining moment for Nigeria’s internet ecosystem. As critical services increasingly move online, it is essential that we provide a secure environment for citizens, businesses, and the government to thrive,” said President of NiRA, Adesola Akinsanya at the unveiling yesterday.
With the .ng zone now fully signed and stable, NiRA has initiated a phased rollout to ensure seamless integration. Accredited registrars and domain owners are encouraged to begin adopting DNSSEC to secure their specific domain names.
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of NiRA, Seyi Onasanya emphasized the collaborative nature of this milestone: “While the .ng zone is secure, our current focus is on driving widespread adoption. We urge banks, government agencies, and businesses to integrate DNSSEC into their cybersecurity frameworks to boost user confidence and accelerate the expansion of our digital economy.”
NiRA remains committed to supporting this transition through ongoing collaboration with industry stakeholders, technical communities, and registrars to drive awareness and build the capacity necessary to secure Nigeria’s digital future.