July has been an eventful month for NiRA, marked by significant strides that have enhanced our impact in the Nigerian digital space. I take great satisfaction in reflecting on and documenting our accomplishments so far. Our achievements reflect our unwavering commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital landscape and securing our position as a leader for innovation as regards the Nigerian internet space
A major highlight was Nigeria’s participation in the Coalition for Digital Africa DNSSEC Roadshow, organised in collaboration with ICANN and NiRA. This initiative is a key part of our journey to deploy DNSSEC, enhancing internet security for the .ng domain. Our engagement in this roadshow underscores our dedication to improving Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
Partnerships and collaborations are at the core of our strategy for the successful adoption of the .ng domain. At the ITEC Expo by AFRINEX, in collaboration with the Abuja Chamber of Commerce, and during the LCCI ICTEL Expo, we strengthened our connections with stakeholders who can act as ambassadors for the .ng domain. Our participation in Global Tech Africa allowed us to engage with key stakeholders and discuss crucial issues essential for a thriving internet ecosystem.
NiRA’s influence extends regionally as well. Our participation in the West African Internet Governance Forum in Dakar, Senegal, focused on disruptive technologies and their impact on the ecosystem. This event provided us with valuable insights into enhancing internet resilience and understanding the impact of AI in Africa.
Our DNSSEC deployment efforts have been informed by best practices shared at the ICANN 80 Policy Forum, where we learned from successful implementations by ccTLDs such as the Kenya Network Information Centre (KENIC) and Rwanda Information and Communication Technology Agency (RICTA). Nigeria’s selection for the DNSSEC Roadshow by the Coalition for Digital Africa, supported by ICANN and NiRA, highlights our commitment to enhancing internet security for the .ng domain. The training, facilitated by Mr. Alain Aina from ICANN, equipped regulators, ISPs, telecoms, domain registrars, and academics with essential knowledge on DNSSEC deployment, risk analysis, and security monitoring as we ensure safer navigation on the internet using the .ng domain.
Additionally, the .ng academy has continued to champion digital skills development through initiatives such as the Life After School Program in collaboration with JCI Nigeria at the University of Ilorin. This program is a testament to our dedication to preparing students for the future with essential digital skills.
In conclusion, our progress is driven by collective effort and a shared vision. Together, we are shaping the future of the Nigerian digital landscape, ensuring our nation remains at the forefront of digital innovation and security. Thank you for your continued support and dedication. We look forward to making further strides in August.