From Lagos.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with major telecom players,including IHS Towers, Digital Realty, and 9mobile Nigeria, is backing the inaugural Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) & Telecom Sustainability Conference 2025.
Our correspondent gathered T
the event is jointly organised by the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA) and the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON).
Organizers said the conference aims to drive discussions and foster partnerships around the implementation of the Presidential Order on the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), signed in June 2024.
The conference will also address infrastructure security, stakeholder roles, regulatory responsibilities, and the broader goal of sustaining telecom development in Nigeria.
The event which is scheduled for August 7, 2025, and will take place in Lagos,is as well designed to assess the current state of telecom infrastructure, evaluate the implementation of the CNII Order, and ensure effective collaboration among all stakeholders—federal and state governments, telecom operators, regulators, and the public.
The conference equally seeks to enhance security, improve compliance, and reinforce the resilience of Nigeria’s critical infrastructure.
The event will feature keynote addresses from the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, and the President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON).
A highlight will be a panel session on “Role Expectations of Stakeholders in the Implementation of the CNII Act”, while IHS Towers will lead a discussion on the current state of Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure.
Expected attendees include Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; representatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC); and the Peace Corps of Nigeria, who will deliberate on securing critical infrastructure and the responsibilities of each sector.
Key Questions to be Addressed at the conference will centre on:
How can the CNII Order be effectively implemented?
What are the specific roles of federal and state actors, operators, consumers, and regulators?
Are telecom companies aligning with CNII requirements?
What areas of the Order need further scrutiny or revision?
How can awareness of CNII provisions be increased among the public?
What strategies can sustain telecom growth in Nigeria?
According to Mr. Chidiebere Nwankwo, General Secretary of NITRA, the conference presents a timely opportunity for both public and private sector stakeholders to evaluate the progress of the CNII Order and chart a fresh course where necessary.
“This event is key because it brings stakeholders to a roundtable to re-evaluate the decision, make amends, and continue the journey. This has to be a periodic gathering to make the goals of this Order achievable,” he said.
ALTON Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, and NITRA Chairman, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, will officially welcome attendees and open the floor for dialogue and collaboration.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
