The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISP) in the country to comply with regulatory frameworks emplaced by the Commission towards ensuring security and safety of their networks for telecom consumers.
Umar Danbatta executive vice chairman (EVC) of the Commission, who gave the charge at the 2023 annual Nigeria Digital Sense Forum held in Lagos, stated that one of the regulatory frameworks put in place by the Commission is the Internet Code of Practice (ICP) for telecom industry.
According to a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, director of public affairs of the Commission, the ICP aims to ensure that the right of internet users are protected while providing clear guidelines to internet access service providers on the use of traffic management practices.
Danbatta, who was represented by the NCC’s Head, New Media and Information Security, Chidi Diugwu, at the Forum said, “the internet code also outlines the obligations of internet access service providers in relation to the protection of consumers’ personal data as well as lists the obligations of internet access service providers in the handling of offensive and potentially-harmful content, and the protection of minors and vulnerable audiences online; among others.
“Through upholding the tenets of Internet Governance Code, the Commission, in collaboration with other stakeholders can make networks safe and get telecom consumers protected online.”
Speaking to the theme of the event, “5G: Data Governance, Safety and Security in Nigeria”, Danbatta said building robust legal and regulatory frameworks is a crucial requirement for effective data governance in Nigeria and that the ICP provides the framework in this regard.
He however, underscored the need for telecom licensees, especially the MNOs and ISPs, to adhere strictly to industry frameworks that seek to enthrone effective governance in Internet delivery services.
He further noted that with the emergence of new technologies such as the Fifth Generation (5G), currently being deployed in Nigeria, the need has come to pay greater attention to the issue of privacy, data integrity and online trust across telecom networks.
