Nigeria's telecoms regulator is preparing to deploy a sweeping cybersecurity framework by 2026, aiming to shield the country's digital backbone from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
The Nigerian Communications Commission announced the comprehensive initiative following its second stakeholder consultation in Abuja on Friday. The framework addresses mounting security risks as Nigeria's digital economy expands rapidly, with more than 220 million active telecom subscribers now relying on these networks daily.
Abraham Oshadami, NCC's Executive Commissioner for Technical Services, warned that cyber attackers are targeting essential infrastructure through coordinated digital and physical assaults. These threats now extend beyond traditional data breaches to potentially endanger human safety, he said, particularly when critical communications systems face disruption.
"Both state and non-state actors are targeting essential sectors through coordinated cyber and physical attacks," Oshadami told the forum. The telecommunications sector powers everything from banking to healthcare across Nigeria, making it both a strategic national asset and an attractive target for cybercriminals.
The World Bank is supporting the project, which will establish minimum security standards for telecom operators. These include incident response protocols, risk management guidelines, and mandatory cooperation with regulatory agencies. The framework builds on existing legislation including the 2015 Cybercrime Prevention Act and 2023 Data Protection Act.
Cybersecurity consultants from CyberNover presented the draft framework to industry players during Friday's session. NCC's Babagana Digima confirmed the framework will be finalized by the third quarter of 2025, with implementation beginning early the following year.
The initiative reflects Nigeria's recognition that sustainable cybersecurity requires collaboration between government and private sector players. Oshadami emphasized that the framework aims to secure digital infrastructure while fostering innovation and long-term industry growth.
The commission's public affairs head, Nnenna Ukoha, said the consultations are designed to refine the draft framework and build consensus on implementation strategies among stakeholders.