The federal government has taken a decisive step toward securing Nigeria’s digital economy with the release of the *Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure Order, 2024*. The gazette, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was lauded by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, as a transformative move to safeguard the nation’s technological assets and infrastructure.
Dr. Tijani emphasized the order’s pivotal role in reducing disruptions and intentional damage to critical ICT systems and infrastructure. “This is a significant step that will strengthen and protect investments in the ICT sector by reducing incidences capable of damaging the operations and functionality of our technological systems, infrastructure, and networks,” he stated.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) also commended the initiative, describing it as a critical milestone for the telecom sector. The Commission highlighted that the order would help mitigate recurring threats to telecommunications infrastructure, ensuring seamless service delivery across the nation.
The gazette designates critical national information infrastructure (CNII) as protected assets, making it a criminal offense to willfully damage key facilities such as telecommunications towers, switch stations, data centers, satellite systems, submarine and fiber optic cables, transmission equipment, e-government platforms, and databases.
Dr. Tijani underscored the administration’s commitment to ensuring the security of these assets, noting that their protection is essential for improving the quality of telecommunications services often disrupted by vandalism and other threats.
“This administration prioritizes the security and protection of these critical infrastructures, recognizing their importance in fostering a thriving digital economy,” he added.
The NCC further noted that the gazette would boost investor confidence in Nigeria’s ICT sector, assuring that telecommunications operators can now operate in a safer and more stable environment.
The government has pledged to continue creating supportive policies and an enabling environment for the digital economy to flourish, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a leader in ICT innovation and investment in Africa.
This landmark order reflects the administration’s resolve to protect the backbone of the nation’s digital and technological advancements.
