The Guardian newspaper recently published an article about the adoption of the .ng domain. The article was based on conversations with past and present Members of NiRA’s Executive Board as well as the reporter’s perspective on the uptake of .ng domain names. We were reminded of the work that still lay ahead for us towards the adoption of .ng domains by all Nigerians. The recent Board Retreat theme could not be more apt; hence I would like to reassure all stakeholders that the outcomes from the Strategic session are proactive. Please look out for the new developmental policies and initiatives this year and engage with NiRA on all existing platforms to provide feedback.
We do not underestimate the importance of increasing our efforts to promote Nigeria’s distinct online identity, because doing so not only puts the country’s entrepreneurs on the global map but also expands opportunities to create more local jobs and grow the country’s economy. As a result, we will continue to implement strategies to lower the barrier to entry and access for individuals and businesses to our domain name extension. We will make additional efforts to implement a revamped NiRA Academy as the special purpose vehicle for educating and developing the capacity of Nigerians, as well as continue to expand our CSR footprint to make a tangible difference in society.
I am especially pleased with the establishment and approval of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB) by the government of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR). Data and privacy breaches are among the most serious cyber threats facing businesses and individuals today. I congratulate Prof. Ali Isa Ibrahim (Pantami), the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, for spearheading this revolutionary initiative and seeing to its approval. It is a positive step in the right direction. I congratulate Dr. Vincent Olatunji whose supervisory qualities have been invaluable to NiRA’s growth.
We welcome collaborations across the information technology industry and look forward to expanding our relationships with all stakeholders. I hope you’re having a good year and encourage you to keep safe and well throughout.
Thank you.
Muhammad Rudman
President, NiRA.