The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a new cybersecurity framework based on the Zero Trust security model to improve the protection and resilience of Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure. The initiative is designed to safeguard critical networks from increasingly complex cyber threats, especially as technologies such as 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence expand the number of connected devices and potential security vulnerabilities.
Under the Zero Trust approach, every user, device, and network connection must be continuously authenticated before gaining access to systems, rather than relying on traditional perimeter-based security. This method helps prevent attackers from moving freely within networks if a breach occurs.
The Cyber Resilience Framework for the Nigerian Communications Sector provides guidelines for telecom operators, internet service providers, and other digital infrastructure companies. It requires them to adopt stronger cybersecurity controls, create incident response systems, appoint cybersecurity officers and implement ongoing risk monitoring and verification procedures.
The framework also directs the creation of a sector-wide Security Operations Centre under the NCC’s Computer Security Incident Response Team to support coordinated monitoring, intelligence sharing, and rapid response to cyber threats affecting services such as internet connectivity, digital identity platforms, and emergency communications.
Telecom operators have been given 12 months to meet the new requirements. The NCC will track compliance using a Cyber Capability Index, which will measure how well companies implement the prescribed cybersecurity standards.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has cautioned Nigerians, particularly content creators, against infringing on individuals’ privacy. The commission expressed concern over the growing practice of recording unsuspecting members of the public and posting such images or videos on social media platforms.
