Dear Esteemed Members, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for gracing this significant occasion, our 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM), whether in person or virtually. On behalf of the Executive Board of Directors, it is with great pleasure and excitement that I welcome you to the AGM, to reflect on the remarkable journey of NiRA for the year 2023.
2023: A Year of Transition and Achievement:
Following the elections at the 15th AGM, NiRA underwent a leadership transition, both within the Board of Trustees and the Executive Board of Directors. This pivotal moment has marked significant changes in strategic initiatives and impactful collaborations.
In my inaugural address as NiRA’s President, I underscored the paramount importance of a winning formula: people, processes, performance, and accountability. To actualize these critical elements, the Executive Board has diligently focused on implementing and refining processes that align with NiRA’s strategic objectives. We have also prioritized fostering industry-based collaborations and forging partnerships aimed at bolstering the adoption of the .ng domain name and enhancing the visibility of the .ng brand.
Let’s reflect on our accomplishments in the year 2023:
State of the Business:
NiRA concluded 2023 with remarkable achievements, boasting 94,723 newly registered domains, 61,227 renewed domain names, and a total of 155,950 domain names.
Twenty-Two (22) new registrars were accredited, showcasing the collective efforts of NiRA Accredited Registrars and their Resellers, which we duly acknowledge and appreciate.
In terms of financials, a total income of NGN348,057,704 was generated in 2023, representing a 1% increase over the NGN344,955,071 generated in 2022. The NiRA Operational Expenditure (OpEX) stood at NGN314,442,777, resulting in a total surplus of NGN33,614,926 for the fiscal year 2023.
Strengthening Registrar Relationships:
In my inaugural address as president, I underscored the critical need to strengthen the relationship between registrars and the registry. In response, we introduced the Registrar Relationship Manager role, dedicated to enhancing communication and support between registrars and the secretariat. Through strategic engagements with both local and international accredited registrars, we gained valuable insights into their requirements and expressed appreciation for their pivotal role in the growth of the .ng domain.
Our commitment to nurturing a robust partnership with our accredited registrars remains unwavering. The establishment of the Registrar Relationship Manager position exemplifies this dedication, as it provides a specialized resource to address registrar needs and cultivate stronger bonds between stakeholders. Together, we are poised to further elevate the .ng domain and advance our collective objectives.
Brand Awareness Activities:
NiRA embarked on an aggressive marketing campaign for the .ng brand through both online and offline advertisements. Strategic placement of LED billboards in prominent locations, such as Ozumba Mbadiwe and the Oworonshoki link to the Third Mainland Bridge, significantly boosted .ng brand visibility. Collaborating with NiRA Accredited Registrars, we worked tirelessly to increase the annual registration and renewal of .ng domain names.
Our e-newsletter, social media channels, and other communication means were leveraged to inform, update, and sensitize the public about NiRA’s operations, accomplishments, and the growth of the DNS Industry in Nigeria.
.ng Awards 2023:
The tradition of recognizing outstanding contributions by companies and individuals to the growth and adoption of .ng domain name continued with the 6th annual .ng Awards ceremony held on November 17, 2023, Nineteen (19) organizations emerged as winners across various categories, with Sixteen (16) distinguished Presidential awardees receiving due recognition. In total, thirty-five (35) awardees were recognized:Five (5) public institutions, nineteen (19) private entities and eleven (11) individuals.
Collaboration and Partnerships:
To amplify awareness and visibility of the .ng brand, NiRA strategically partnered and collaborated with high-profile organizations such as the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Lagos Chamber of Commerce, and Industry (LCCI), Innovation Support Network (ISN) Hubs, Lagos Innovates and Fate Foundation.
Building on the foundation laid by my predecessor, NiRA through its special purpose vehicle the .NG Academy, took a significant step by signing an MOU with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2023. This partnership paved the way for a capacity training program designed for senior officials of the Commission, as well as other law enforcement agencies. Through this initiative, the Academy delivered comprehensive training sessions covering essential topics such as the Domain Name System (DNS) and cybersecurity. These sessions included lectures, discussions, and hands-on exercises aimed at equipping law enforcement officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to combat cybercrime effectively.
As strong advocates for policies that promote the growth of the .ng domain, we applaud the Federal government’s recent adoption of the second-level domain policy for Federal government agencies and MDAs. This step forward represents a significant advancement in our continuous efforts to strengthen the digital landscape. The success of implementing this policy was made possible through collaborative efforts demonstrated in the sensitization webinar series, led by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in partnership with stakeholders, including NiRA. We take pride in our contribution to this essential initiative.
A noteworthy highlight was the visit of Mr. Bashir U. Kwabo, the Honorable Commissioner of Innovation and Digital Economy for Sokoto State, and his team to the NiRA secretariat during their tour of the Lagos digital ecosystem.
NIGF 2023:
As stakeholders in the Nigerian internet space, prioritizing inclusivity and nurturing a thriving community is of utmost importance. Our hosting of The Nigerian Internet Governance Forum (NIGF), with NiRA serving as the Chair of the Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG), reflects this steadfast commitment to creating an environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Furthermore, our active participation in global events such as ICANN 77 in Cancun, ICANN 78 in Hamburg, and the 18th edition of the Internet Governance Forum in Kyoto amplifies our presence on the international stage, ensuring that the perspectives and interests of the Nigerian internet community are well-represented and considered in global discussions.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):
NiRA remains steadfast in its CSR initiatives, utilizing the Ndukwe Kalu Foundation (NKF) and .NG Academy to give back to the society.
Appreciation:
My heartfelt appreciation goes to all NiRA members, stakeholders, and NiRA Accredited Registrars for their unwavering support. Special thanks to the NiRA Board of Trustees and Board of Directors for their guidance, cooperation, and support. A sincere acknowledgment to the Gentlemen of the Fourth Realm for their continuous support in promoting NiRA. I cannot overlook the dedication of the entire NiRA staff; your hard work is the backbone of our success.
In conclusion, the achievements of NiRA in 2023 are a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant digital ecosystem in Nigeria. As we look ahead, let us continue to collaborate, innovate, and drive positive change in the Nigerian internet space.
Thank you very much, and may the Almighty God guide and bless us all.
Mr. Adesola Akinsanya
President, Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA)
