STAYING SAFE ONLINE AT THIS TIME

Daily, more and more Nigerians get on the Internet and experience some personal freedom at communicating. They sign up on Social media platforms and chat groups, reconnecting with family and friends. It is usually a great feeling, seeing that one can communicate at the speed of thought.

With this freedom of expression, comes the need to be responsible online, and avoid the spread of fake news and hate speeches. This is now more important, as we begin the 2019 general elections this coming weekend.

There is no doubt that some misguided individuals will attempt to create chaos by spreading unfounded news, fake election results etc. It is important that all Nigerians are vigilant and remain vigilant, treat every bit of information with caution, and do well to know that we will not have a nation, if we incinerate the peace of the country.

One of the true tests of websites that will carry authentic news and information is that such websites use the .ng domain string. This does not mean that there will not be authentic websites that do not use the .ng domain string, but the importance of localization cannot be overemphasized, in this era of global communication.

NIRA Accredited Registrars carry out some form of “Know Your Customers” (KYC) which gives more confidence that if it is a .ng domain name, it will have gone through some verification exercise. As a fallback for websites that may have gone rogue, NIRA provides an  email address – abuse@nira.org.ng where the general populace can report websites that are being used or activities that may be injurious to the wellbeing of all. If you find such a website in the .ng space, please do not hesitate to report such abuse.

As we go into the elections, I implore all NIRA members to be vigilant, exercise your franchise, but please act responsibly.

May Nigeria be blessed with those who will give it good leadership and develop the Nation to a place of pride, and of benefit to all. May such leaders enjoy great success at the polls. Amen.

I remain your President, 

Rev’d Sunday Folayan

President, NIRA Executive Board

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