A nation’s digital identity, in relation to the global internet sector, is as important as its physical borders.
The .ng domain, a symbol of Nigeria’s digital sovereignty and a key enabler of digital growth, is fast becoming a cornerstone of the nation’s digital economy.
NiRA, the organisation responsible for managing the .ng domain, has relentlessly ensured a secure, reliable, and accessible online presence for individuals and businesses, having recorded a commendable 229,596 .ng domain registrations as of August 27, 2024.
Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, president of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), represented by Peter Oluka, member, Executive Board of Directors, NiRA, revealed this during his keynote address at the NITRA ICT Growth Conference 4.0 held at CitiHeight Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, themed, “Impact of AI On National Development: Prospects, Policies, and Challenges in Nigeria.”
Akinsanya stated that the country is at a sensitive moment in its digital transformation, highlighting the indispensability of the .ng domain in enhancing Nigeria’s national digital identity.
The .ng domain has gone beyond a mere digital suffix, it now represents a national asset. The domain is a big part of many important enablers of digital transformation, offering a uniquely Nigerian online presence in the global internet sector.
Mr. Akinsanya noted this as he spoke on NiRA’s tireless efforts in promoting the adoption of the .ng domain.
This achievement is set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s overall digital growth, with the digital economy now contributing over 14% to the country’s GDP.
From fintech startups bolstering financial services to digital platforms enhancing access to education, Nigeria’s digital industry is adapting rapidly, driven by innovation and a growing online presence.
However, Mr. Akinsanya also acknowledged the challenges that come with this growth. “With these opportunities come significant challenges,” he said. “Issues of digital inclusion, cybersecurity, infrastructure deficits, and the digital skills gap continue to hamper our progress.”
These challenges are pressing, as they bring about risks to the integrity and security of Nigeria’s digital sovereignty.
To address these challenges, NiRA has taken assertive measures to ensure that the .ng domain remains accessible, affordable, and secure for all Nigerians.
Mr. Akinsanya pointed out that NiRA has partnered with various stakeholders to make sure that “every Nigerian, regardless of their location, can have a digital identity that they can trust.”
This is essential for businesses, government services and individual connectivity to the global economy.
Cybersecurity, a big issue with the increasing digitalisation of Nigeria’s economy, was a major focus of Mr. Akinsanya’s speech.
He noted that cybersecurity threats are on the rise but NiRA is working with industry partners, government agencies, and international bodies to ensure that Nigeria’s cyberspace is safe and resilient.
He stressed the importance of “advocating for robust policies, enhancing public awareness on cybersecurity best practices, and fostering a culture of trust and transparency.”
The issue of digital inclusion was another urgent point in Mr. Akinsanya’s address. He stated that for Nigeria to truly leverage the prospects of ICT, it must bridge the digital divide that exists across various segments of society.
Through initiatives like the .NG Academy, NiRA is working to improve digital literacy and expand internet access to underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the digital economy.
Mr. Akinsanya further called for collaboration among all stakeholders — industry leaders, policymakers, academia, and civil society — to build a resilient digital sector that supports innovation, meets future infrastructure demands, and cultivates a skilled workforce ready to lead in the digital world.
“We believe in the power of the internet to transform lives, to create opportunities, and to drive our nation’s development,” he stated.
“Let us seize this moment to shape the future of ICT in Nigeria—a future that is bright, secure, and inclusive,” Mr. Akinsanya concluded, pointing to the country’s progress and prosperity.
