As the digital landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the judiciary stands as a vital pillar in shaping a present and a future where technology serves humanity, says Dr. Aminu Maida, the executive vice chairman of NCC.
He stated this today in Lagos at the ongoing two-day Annual Workshop for Judges on Legal Issues in Telecommunications organized by the Commission.
Maida, noted that the judiciary is catching the technology-fever as, to an extent, it depends on digital tools and technologies to carry out its functions, adding that most of the work Judges do have been transformed over time by the introduction of technology, commendably improving the pace and quality of the delivery of justice in Nigeria.
Maida said that clearly, no sector of national life was left out of the digital transformation conversation, noting that it impacts all of us.
“Increasingly over the years, telecommunication infrastructure has suffered from disruptions due extensive damage from vandalism and theft, fiber cuts by construction companies to mention a few, and even restricted access that prevents operators from servicing critical infrastructure.
“The industry has long called for special protections to be accorded to these assets to ensure continuous connectivity and reliable communication services.
The Presidential Order designating telecommunications infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure requires judicial support to ensure effective implementation.
“Under this Order, individuals, organizations, or even government agencies are prohibited from sealing, removing, or damaging telecommunications infrastructure without a lawful court order, “Maida said..
He said that the Commission anticipates that the courts might occasionally receive requests for orders to grant exceptions to the protections afforded to these Critical National Information Infrastructures, noting that during the workshop, insights would be provided to support judicial discretion in evaluating such requests.
Maida explained that the order would safeguard vital telecommunication assets, enhance national security, and promote economic growth.
“The judiciary’s role in protecting fundamental rights, enforcing digital contracts, and developing digital jurisprudence is vital to Nigeria’s digital transformation,” Maida emphasized.
He noted that NCC was working with key stakeholders, including the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, to ensure seamless implementation of the Presidential Order.
“The judiciary’s role in shaping Nigeria’s digital future cannot be overstated. We must work together to ensure Nigeria remains competitive in the global digital economy.
“Nigeria’s digital economy has tremendous potential for growth, with revenues projected to reach 18.30 billion dollars by 2026. The country’s digital transformation is expected to create employment opportunities, reduce poverty, and promote innovation.
Also, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the chief justice of Nigeria, commended the Commission for its assiduous efforts at protecting consumers from unfair practices by service providers.
Kekere-Ekun, speaking through Justice Jummai Sankey, Justice of the Supreme Court, said that the Nigerian Judiciary was committed to the development of the telecommunications sector and as such, would continue to ensure coherence in the interpretation of the relevant laws as well as transparency and efficiency in the dispensation of justice.
She highlighted pressing concerns, including cybersecurity risks, consumer data protection, and the critical need for improved dispute resolution frameworks within the digital economy.
Kekere -Ekun said she was hopeful l that the workshop would help judicial officers gain the technical expertise required to tackle emerging legal challenges in telecommunications.
