The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, yesterday extended a warm reception to the newly appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria and Ambassador of the Vatican City, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty. The high-profile meeting took place at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, underscoring the state’s deep-rooted connection to the Catholic Church and its leadership.

Most Rev. Crotty, an Irish prelate with a distinguished diplomatic career, was welcomed with open arms by Governor Soludo, who seized the occasion to honor the historic contributions of Irish missionaries to the growth of Christianity in Nigeria. The Governor spoke passionately about the invaluable sacrifices made by early church emissaries, particularly Irish priests, who dedicated their lives to spreading the gospel and establishing Catholic institutions across the eastern region of the country.

In his address, Governor Soludo highlighted the legacy of the Shanahan family and other Irish clergy, whose work laid the foundation for Catholic education, healthcare, and spiritual growth in the region. Drawing from personal experience, he fondly recounted his time as an altar boy in Abakaliki, where he was mentored by an Irish priest, Rev. Fr. Patrick. “The selfless service of these missionaries shaped the spiritual and social fabric of our communities,” he remarked, emphasizing the lasting impact of their contributions.

The Governor expressed his optimism for Most Rev. Crotty’s tenure in Nigeria, describing it as a unique opportunity to deepen the ties between the Vatican and Nigeria, particularly in Anambra State, a region with a rich Catholic heritage. “We are honored to have you here and are confident that your diplomatic and pastoral mission will further strengthen the Catholic Church’s role in fostering peace, unity, and development in our country,” Governor Soludo stated.

As the Apostolic Nuncio, Most Rev. Crotty is expected to play a crucial role in representing the Holy See’s interests in Nigeria, fostering collaboration between the Vatican and the Nigerian Church, and addressing key issues within the Catholic community.

The visit to Anambra underscores the state’s prominence as a beacon of Catholic faith in Nigeria and highlights the enduring bond between Ireland and the region, forged through decades of missionary work. Governor Soludo assured the Nuncio of the state’s unwavering support in fulfilling his mission and wished him a fruitful and impactful tenure as the Vatican’s ambassador to Nigeria.

This landmark meeting serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of faith, cultural exchange, and the shared commitment to service between the Vatican, Ireland, and Nigeria.

 

 

In a moment of pride for Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the TMT Advocacy Body of the International Institute of Communications (IIC). This prestigious role underscores Dr. Maida’s growing influence and the global recognition of Nigeria’s rising prominence in the world of telecommunications and digital innovation.

The International Institute of Communications is a globally respected organization that serves as a collaborative hub for leaders in telecommunications, media, and technology (TMT). The institute facilitates conversations on regulatory frameworks, emerging technologies, and sustainable growth, bringing together policymakers, regulators, and industry pioneers. Dr. Maida’s appointment to its Board signals not just a personal achievement but a broader milestone for Nigeria, as it positions the country at the forefront of global telecom discourse.

Dr. Maida’s journey to this esteemed position is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and innovative spirit. With a career spanning decades and contributions to organizations such as British Telecom, Cisco Systems, and EE Ltd., Dr. Maida has consistently demonstrated his ability to navigate and shape the dynamic telecommunications landscape. At UbiquiSys Ltd, he was part of a groundbreaking engineering team that revolutionized small-cell technology, eventually leading to the company’s acquisition by Cisco Systems in 2013.

His achievements extend to Nigeria, where as the Executive Director of Technology and Operations at the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement Systems PLC (NIBSS), he transformed the country’s digital payments infrastructure, strengthening the backbone of its financial ecosystem. Now, as the EVC of the NCC, Dr. Maida has championed policies that prioritize connectivity, competition, and inclusivity, driving Nigeria’s telecom sector into a new era of growth and innovation.

The appointment also represents an opportunity for Nigeria to have a stronger voice on the international stage. Dr. Maida’s deep understanding of technology, coupled with his passion for policy advocacy, positions him to contribute meaningfully to global conversations on the future of telecommunications and digital access. Moreover, his role provides a platform to showcase Nigeria’s success story in leveraging technology to foster development and bridge digital divides.

Speaking on his appointment, Dr. Maida expressed gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. “It’s an honor to serve on the Board of the International Institute of Communications, where we can work together to shape a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable telecommunications industry. I look forward to sharing insights from Nigeria’s transformative journey and learning from global best practices to further our collective progress.”

As Dr. Maida embarks on this new chapter, his journey is a reminder of the power of leadership, vision, and collaboration. His role on the IIC Board not only elevates his legacy but also sets the stage for greater international recognition of Nigeria’s contributions to the global technology and telecommunications sectors.

 

 

 

In an effort to equip Nigeria’s youth with essential knowledge on data protection and digital literacy, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), in collaboration with Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide, the Chairman of the House Committee on Digital and Information Technology, hosted a five-day training in Ibadan. The event, which saw over 1,000 young Nigerians participate, marks a significant milestone in the country’s push to promote digital awareness and data privacy practices.

Held across multiple locations in Ibadan, the training was designed to provide participants with a deeper understanding of how to protect their personal data in today’s digital world. The initiative is part of the NDPC’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and build a data-conscious society, especially as more people engage with online platforms.

Representing the National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, Mrs. Abiola Jide-Abe, the Commission’s Head of Strategic Planning and Communication, shared the Commission’s strong commitment to safeguarding Nigerians’ privacy rights. Mrs. Jide-Abe expressed that the NDPC’s mission goes beyond just enforcing data protection laws but also empowering more than 500,000 youths to be active participants in the country’s growing data protection and privacy ecosystem.

A central theme of the training was the Nigeria Data Protection Act, a crucial piece of legislation signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 12, 2023. Mrs. Jide-Abe highlighted the law’s importance, noting that it was a clear demonstration of the government’s dedication to ensuring that Nigerians’ personal data remains protected and secure in a rapidly evolving digital world.

The training covered vital areas such as the principles behind data protection, the lawful basis for data processing, and the importance of data security. Participants also learned about the critical role of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) in safeguarding personal information, as well as the legal and ethical responsibilities they hold.

Throughout the week, experts and speakers shared practical knowledge on how individuals can protect themselves online, recognizing potential risks, and understanding the rights they have under the new data protection laws. In addition to these technical discussions, the sessions were designed to spark a broader conversation on digital literacy, encouraging young Nigerians to take an active role in ensuring the safety of their personal data.

Community leaders, cybersecurity experts, and government officials also joined the event to support the training and reinforce the importance of digital security. The training’s success in Ibadan is a promising start, with the NDPC planning to expand this initiative to other parts of Nigeria to reach even more young people who will be the future of the country’s digital economy.

The overarching goal of the NDPC’s efforts is not just about compliance with data protection laws but about fostering a culture where privacy rights are respected and upheld by every Nigerian. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, these efforts aim to ensure that the youth are equipped to navigate the challenges of the online world safely and securely.

The NDPC’s initiative to engage over 1,000 youths in this vital training is just one part of a larger strategy to build a generation of informed, responsible, and privacy-conscious citizens. As the Commission continues its work, it remains committed to ensuring that the rights of data subjects are upheld, and that Nigerians are empowered to protect themselves in a digital age.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has officially rolled out its much-anticipated Licensing Framework for Application-To-Person (A2P) services, a move that promises to bring greater structure and transparency to the rapidly evolving telecom industry. The framework, which has been carefully crafted in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) of 2003, was made available for public access on the Commission’s official website, www.ncc.gov.ng, as of November 29, 2024.

The A2P service model plays a crucial role in facilitating automated communication between businesses and their customers, typically for notifications, alerts, and marketing messages. This framework is designed to regulate how such services are delivered, ensuring that the process is seamless, efficient, and compliant with existing laws. By setting clear guidelines, the NCC aims to foster a more reliable and transparent ecosystem for both service providers and consumers.

In an effort to engage stakeholders and foster inclusive participation, the NCC has announced that a Stakeholders Forum will be held virtually on December 20th, 2024. The forum is set to provide a space for operators, providers, and other industry players to discuss the framework, voice their opinions, and ask questions to NCC officials. This interactive session will also allow for a deeper understanding of the framework’s objectives and its potential impact on the telecommunications landscape.

“We are committed to ensuring that the Nigerian telecom sector continues to grow in a way that is both regulated and responsive to the needs of all stakeholders,” said an NCC representative. “The A2P framework is a key step in maintaining the integrity of our telecom space, and we are eager to hear from all those who are affected by it.”

To ensure that the process remains transparent and responsive to feedback, the NCC has invited all interested parties to submit their comments and suggestions on the framework. Stakeholders are encouraged to review the document and share their views before the deadline on December 19th, 2024. Contributions can be sent via email to aadaba@ncc.gov.ng, with a copy to msyusuf@ncc.gov.ng.

By opening this dialogue, the NCC hopes to create a regulatory environment that not only protects the interests of consumers but also supports the growth of businesses within the telecom sector. This initiative is part of the Commission’s broader mission to maintain the highest standards of governance, compliance, and service delivery within Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

The NCC remains steadfast in its commitment to the continued development of a robust and well-regulated telecom sector that aligns with international best practices while addressing the unique needs of the Nigerian market.

 

 

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has allocated $32 billion to its 2024 national budget, catering to an estimated population of 233 million. This results in a budget per capita of just $137, highlighting a stark contrast with its African counterparts, Kenya and South Africa.

Kenya, with a population of 56 million, unveiled a $30 billion budget for 2024. This translates to a budget per capita of $536—nearly four times that of Nigeria. Meanwhile, South Africa allocated $130 billion for its 64 million citizens, achieving a budget per capita of $2,031, a figure significantly higher than both Nigeria and Kenya.

The disparity in budget per capita raises critical questions about resource allocation and economic priorities in the respective countries. While South Africa and Kenya appear to have higher per capita funding to address developmental needs, Nigeria’s relatively low figure underscores the challenges of balancing its growing population with available financial resources.

These statistics, compiled by Statisense, provide a snapshot of fiscal planning across Africa’s leading economies, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to budgeting and sustainable growth.

 

Roberta Edu, founder of the baby formula brand Moppets and a career-driven mother, has shared her thoughts on the importance of teaching children life skills from a young age. Drawing from her personal experiences, Edu highlighted the challenges and rewards of instilling independence in children, especially in a bustling city like Lagos.

Speaking candidly, Edu recounted her initial approach to raising her niece, Joy, who joined her household at the age of 10. “When Joy started living with us, she didn’t do much. Her food was served, her clothes were washed, and she had no responsibilities. Years later, she couldn’t handle basic tasks. The wake-up call came when her siblings, who live with their parents, visited us and showcased impressive skills. It was embarrassing,” she said.

Motivated to make a change, Edu decided to stop hiring a cook and encouraged Joy to start learning how to cook. “It was a battle at first, but she eventually got used to it,” she said. Inspired by this progress, Edu extended the initiative to her own children, Sema and Tobi, introducing them to chores such as washing their clothes, cleaning their rooms, and helping with meal preparations.

“At the beginning, it felt like an uphill task,” Edu admitted. “But today, my kids wake up on Saturdays, grab their laundry baskets, tidy their rooms, and even join in picking leaves for soup. They now handle their tasks with ease and to their satisfaction.”

Edu emphasized that children are never too young to learn essential life skills. “If they can write ABC, they can also learn survival skills,” she said, urging parents to encourage their children to take on responsibilities that will prepare them for the future.

Through her experience, Edu hopes to inspire other parents to recognize the value of teaching independence and self-sufficiency to children, ensuring they grow into capable and confident adults.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

First introduced in 1968, the Peugeot 504 has earned its place as one of the most iconic and enduring vehicles in automotive history. With production spanning over three decades, including localized manufacturing in some regions until 2006, the 504 left an indelible mark on the global car market. Known for its robust design, elegant styling, and versatility, it quickly became a symbol of reliability and class.

Available in multiple body styles—sedan, coupe, convertible, wagon, and pickup—the Peugeot 504 catered to a diverse range of drivers. Under the hood, the car offered a variety of engine options, from petrol to diesel, with capacities ranging from 1.8 to 2.7 liters. The diesel variants were particularly celebrated for their efficiency and durability, making the 504 a trusted companion in regions with challenging conditions, such as Africa and South America.

Designed by the renowned Italian firm Pininfarina, the 504 boasted clean lines and timeless proportions that appealed to both urban and rural buyers. Its suspension system, with independent front and rear setups, ensured a smooth ride, while its rugged construction made it adept at handling rough terrains. The interior offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, complete with high-quality materials and practical ergonomics that prioritized driver and passenger comfort.

The 504 also made its mark in motorsport, particularly in rallying events like the Safari Rally, where its durability and performance on tough tracks earned widespread acclaim. This motorsport success further cemented its reputation as a vehicle that could combine elegance with unparalleled functionality.

Decades after its debut, the Peugeot 504 remains celebrated for its blend of style, dependability, and versatility. It stands as a testament to Peugeot’s engineering excellence, with a legacy that continues to inspire admiration among classic car enthusiasts worldwide.

 

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), has called for sustainable and long-term practices in data protection to build trust and confidence in data processing activities. Dr. Olatunji made this call as the keynote speaker at a Data Protection Workshop organized by KPMG Advisory Services, where he presented a paper titled “Data Protection Sustainability and the Role of the Data Protection Officer (DPO).”

In his address, Dr. Olatunji commended KPMG for its efforts in organizing the workshop, describing it as aligned with the Commission’s strategic focus on awareness and capacity building. He noted the importance of distinguishing between privacy and data security, emphasizing the NDPC’s commitment to raising awareness on both fronts.

During his presentation, Dr. Olatunji outlined the fundamentals of data protection sustainability, focusing on:

  • Continuous compliance with data protection regulations;
  • Privacy by design and default in organizational systems;
  • Awareness creation among stakeholders; and
  • Capacity building to develop skilled Data Protection Officers (DPOs).

He urged data controllers and processors to adopt robust, long-term data protection measures, stressing that such practices enhance trust and credibility. He also provided insights into the evolving roles and challenges faced by DPOs, emphasizing their importance in navigating compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).

As part of the workshop, Dr. Olatunji participated in a fireside chat, where he discussed the domestication of the National Data Protection Certification process. This initiative, he explained, aims to establish a strong pool of certified DPOs while creating a dedicated faculty for their professional development.

“Data protection is no longer a choice but a necessity. We are intensifying enforcement to ensure compliance with the NDPA. Organizations must prioritize data protection as part of their sustainability agenda,” Dr. Olatunji remarked.

The workshop attracted high-level participation from CEOs and DPOs representing various industries, including finance, telecommunications, insurance, energy, and multinational corporations. The event underscored the increasing importance of data protection in fostering organizational resilience and building public trust in the digital age.

KPMG’s initiative and the NDPC’s continued advocacy signal a growing commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem, ensuring the country’s alignment with global best practices in privacy rights and compliance.

#ChampioningPrivacyRights

Eko Revenue Plus Summit 2024, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), emphasized the critical role of data protection in fostering trust and unlocking new revenue streams for Lagos State. The summit, themed “Unlocking New Revenue Streams for Lagos State,” was held at the Balmoral Convention Center, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.

Dr. Olatunji, in his goodwill message, highlighted Lagos State’s pivotal role as an economic hub in Nigeria and Africa, noting its large population, thriving housing market, and robust education and healthcare infrastructure. He attributed the state’s economic strides to the foundation laid by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, during his tenure as Lagos State Governor in 1999.

The NDPC CEO commended the Lagos State Government for its efforts in advancing digital identity management and compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act. He revealed that the state currently has 73 trained Data Protection Officers (DPOs) across various sectors but urged for more integration of privacy into revenue-generating technologies.May be an image of 4 people

“Building trust and confidence among residents, investors, and businesses is critical. Data protection is central to achieving this,” Dr. Olatunji said. He assured the audience of NDPC’s commitment to fostering a culture of privacy in Lagos State through collaboration and innovation.

The summit, which focused on strategies to expand Lagos State’s revenue base, drew prominent dignitaries, including:

  • The Executive Governor of Lagos State, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin;
  • The Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation, Mr. Abdul-Kabir Opeyemi Ogungbo;
  • The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi;
  • The Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Ayodele Subir;
  • The Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science & Technology, Hon. Olatubosun Alake;
  • Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly; and
  • Other members of the Executive Council.

Dr. Olatunji also recognized Lagos State’s role as a leader in adopting data protection practices, which aligns with the ongoing digital transformation efforts under the current administration. He noted the strides made under President Tinubu’s leadership, particularly with the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, as key to Lagos State’s compliance.

The summit highlighted the Lagos State Government’s commitment to leveraging innovation, technology, and sustainable practices to increase its revenue while enhancing transparency and public trust.

 

 

 While it’s true that every company is a potential target for distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, cybercriminals will often exploit security challenges and develop customised attack patterns that target the unique characteristics of specific vertical sectors.

 

For the first half of 2024, this statement certainly rings true for the telecommunications sector – from the global level, right through to many countries across the African continent.

 

Wired versus wireless telecoms: what is the difference?

 

For decades now the telecommunications industry has been referred to within the context of two sub-sectors, namely wired and wireless. The key distinction between them lies in the medium of transmission. Wired carriers transmit voice, data, text, sound and video programming via electrified wires or optical fibres. In contrast, wireless carriers deliver the same types of information using electromagnetic energy through microwave or radio spectra.

 

Both segments of the market have seen immense technological innovation in recent years. On the wired side, advancements include the development of digital subscriber lines (DSL), cable and fibre-optic services. Meanwhile, the wireless sector has evolved from analogue radio signals (1G) to the ongoing global rollout of 5G technology.

 

“Both wired and wireless telecommunications carriers have been identified as major targets of cyberattacks in 2024 – and earlier – primarily due to their critical role in the digital ecosystem,” explains Bryan Hamman, regional director for Africa at NETSCOUT. “In fact, if we look back to the second half of 2022, NETSCOUT documented a trend in DDoS attacks against wireless telecommunications providers that incurred a massive 79% increase globally.

 

“This has continued into 2024, as noted in the recently released NETSCOUT 1H2024 DDoS Threat Intelligence Report (TIR), which states that wireless telecommunications carriers (except satellites) across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) have seen a marked uptick in the number of attacks so far this year, up from 344,401 to 525,386 incidents in the first half of 2024, representing a jump of more than 34%.

 

“This could potentially be attributed to several factors: the increased use of wireless hotspots by gamers, the proliferation of 5G networks, and continued growth in the use of mobile phones, tablets and other devices,” he adds.

 

The latest NETSCOUT report also identified that attacks on wired telecommunications carriers for the first half of 2024 have also seen a significant increase, from 658,881 to 787,714.

 

Why is the telco industry being increasingly targeted?

According to Hamman, cybercriminals have increased their focus on these sectors because of their vast infrastructure, which underpins internet and communication services for both consumers and businesses.

“Because the disruption of these services has a widespread impact, they make an attractive target for cybercriminals,” he clarifies.

Key factors contributing to the increased targeting include:

  1. Dependence on networks: The growing reliance on telecommunications for digital transformation initiatives, remote work and online services has intensified their importance.
  2. More sophisticated attacks: DDoS attacks against these carriers have become particularly prevalent, leveraging sophisticated, multi-vector approaches and amplification techniques to overwhelm their networks. For example, Domain Name System (DNS) and Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)-related vectors remain common in these attacks.
  3. Cybercrime motivations: Telecommunications carriers possess significant amounts of personal and business data, making them lucrative targets for ransomware attacks or data breaches aimed at extracting financial gains or sensitive information.

 

Local cybercrime aligns with global trends

 

NETSCOUT’s 1H2024 DDoS Threat Intelligence Report encompassed data sourced from a number of countries across Africa, which showed that the global trends towards increased incidents within the local telecommunications space are reflected locally too.

 

In fact, wireless telecommunications carriers were ranked as the most targeted industry for several countries, including South Africa (54,455 attacks), Mauritius (30,039), Morocco (16,461), Mozambique (1,902), Uganda (978), Benin (196), Côte d’Ivoire (175), Lesotho (128), Senegal (107), Tanzania (99), the Democratic Republic of Congo (52), Mali (32), Guinea (19), Cameroon (16), Ethiopia (8), Rwanda (3), and Liberia (3).

 

Countries including Kenya (18,739 attacks), Egypt (4,910), Tunisia (574), Ghana (112), Zimbabwe (15), and Zambia (1) listed wireless carriers as their second most targeted sector, with Nigeria rating it as the third most targeted vertical, with 73 attacks.

 

Wired telecommunications carriers, on the other hand, were the most targeted sector in Egypt, with 28,536 DDoS attacks within the first six months of 2024, followed by Kenya (19,542), Tunisia (3,529), Algeria (411) and Libya (113). This subsector was also ranked as having the second and third highest number of incidents in Morocco (6,022), Angola (293), Uganda (66), Cameroon (15), Benin (11), Tanzania (7), Cote de Ivoire (5), Namibia (2), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (1).

 

The best way for organisations across all verticals to combat threats is to be well-educated, ensure the viability of their networks and protect against future attacks, says Hamman. “Likewise, it’s vital to have the ability to detect anomalous behaviour as it’s happening on the network – a sign that you may be under attack from a previously unknown vulnerability.”

 

Visit our interactive website for more information on NETSCOUT’s DDoS Threat Intelligence Report. For real-time DDoS attack stats, map, and insights, visit NETSCOUT Cyber Threat Horizon.

 

About NETSCOUT

NETSCOUT SYSTEMS, INC. (NASDAQ: NTCT) protects the connected world from cyberattacks and performance and availability disruptions through its unique visibility platform and solutions powered by its pioneering deep packet inspection at scale technology. NETSCOUT serves the world’s largest enterprises, service providers, and public sector organizations. Learn more at www.netscout.com or follow @NETSCOUT on LinkedIn, X, or Facebook.