NCC calls for exercise of authority, control over mining, usage of data

The Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) has called for the exercise of authority as well as control over the mining and usage of data to increase the value of data and minimise data-related costs and risks.

The Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Prof Umar Danbatta, made the call in his keynote address at the Nigeria Digital Sense Forum organised by ITRealm in Lagos on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the forum had the theme: “5G: Data Governance, Safety and Security in Nigeria”.

Danbatta was represented by Dr Chukwudi Diugu, Head of New Media and Information Security, NCC.

The EVC said that data is critical to the digital economy and all must prioritise building robust legal frameworks for data governance.

According to him, as we embrace the transformative potential of 5G, we must also prioritise safety concerns.

He said that the amount and speed of data generated using 5G technology was unprecedented, as such, the need to always prioritise consumer privacy, transparency and ethical data use.

“By cultivating trust and handling data responsibly, we can unlock the full potential of 5G technology and promote innovation in Nigeria.

“We know Nigeria is a highly technology-driven country, and the advent of 5G technology has opened up immense opportunities and challenges, especially regarding data governance, safety, and security.

“While 5G technology has enhanced capabilities that will provide superior communications services for the socio-economic development of Nigeria and facilitate the attainment of a National Digital Economy,’’ he said.

According to him, we must consider the challenges that come with it, particularly in protecting user data privacy and safety.

Danbatta said that to ensure the security and protection of networks and consumers, the NCC Act mandates its licensees to prevent their network facilities or services from being used.

The EVC said that the act prevented the licensee’s network from being used in, or in relation to, the commission of any offence under any law in operation in Nigeria.

He said in this regard, licensees were required to assist the Commission and other law enforcement agencies in preventing crime in Nigeria.

Danbatta said that NCC is committed to fostering a culture of safety and security while rolling out the 5G technology.

According to him, it is achieved through ethical data governance practices, robust security measures, and regulatory frameworks.

He said that the successful implementation of 5G technology also depended on a collective commitment to data governance, safety, and security.

The EVC said that in order to build a safer, secure, and more inclusive digital ecosystem, all must work collaboratively, including government, regulators, operators, service providers, and individual users to create a secure and sustainable environment for this technology to thrive.

He, however, appreciated the attention and presence at the event and the partnership in collective effort to harness the full potential of 5G technology for Nigeria’s development.

The President of Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Prof. Adesina Shodiya, as the Chairman of the occasion, said that all should ensure the safe use of the internet and technology.

Shodiya said that one must think of how to use it to enhance career, irrespective of the profession.

He, however, emphasised that no system was devoid of attacks but it was important to be conscious while using technology and the internet.

In his presentation on 5G Open Access and the Role of Citizens, the Chief Executive Officer, of Wisdom Computers Mr Francis Uzor highlighted the roles of citizens.

Uzor highlighted advocacy, active digital citizenship, monitoring and accountability, and digital inclusion among others as roles of citizens.

The Lead Consulting Strategist, of Digital Sense Africa, Mr Remmy Nweke, in his welcome address, said that the forum in its 14th edition had remained an annual rallying point for internet stakeholders.

According to Nweke, the stakeholders in the country come together to discuss and proffer solutions to improving challenges around internet governance, security and the socio-economic impact of internet usage.

He said that the focus was on students, youths, women and community-based organisations.