By Damilola Abiola
In a decisive step toward strengthening Nigeria’s digital backbone, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), major telecom operators, and security stakeholders will converge on August 7, 2025, in Lagos for the maiden edition of the CNII & Telecom Sustainability Conference.
Organized through a partnership between the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA) and the Association of Licenced Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), the high-level gathering will focus on the theme: “Telecoms Industry Sustainability and the CNII Act – Way Forward.”
Key industry players including IHS Towers, Digital Realty, and 9mobile, alongside national regulators and security agencies like the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Peace Corps Nigeria, will participate in strategic discussions aimed at deepening the implementation of the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order signed by the President in June 2024.
Expected to headline the event is the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, alongside NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, and the President of ATCON (Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria), who will deliver keynote addresses on the state and future of telecom infrastructure.
“This event is key because it will bring stakeholders to the CNII plan to a roundtable to re-evaluate the decision, make amends and continue the journey,” said Mr. Chidiebere Nwankwo, General Secretary of NITRA. “This has to be a periodic gathering to make the goals of this order achievable.”
Signed as an extension of the Cybercrimes Act of 2015, the CNII Order, 2024 designates telecommunications networks, financial systems, and other essential infrastructure as critical to national security, mandating their protection from physical and cyber threats.
Panel discussions will tackle critical questions such as:
- Are telecom companies adequately aligning with CNII provisions?
- What role should federal, state, and private stakeholders play?
- How do we ensure nationwide security and public awareness?
- Is the CNII Order comprehensive, or are there areas for improvement?
IHS Towers, a leading infrastructure provider, will give insights on the current state of telecom infrastructure across Nigeria, while an expert panel will explore the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in implementing the CNII Act effectively.
Chairmen of both host organizations,vEngr. Gbenga Adebayo (ALTON) and Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi (NITRA), will officially welcome guests and set the tone for collaborative action.
“This is a moment of reflection and realignment for all of us in the industry,” noted ALTON Chairman, Engr. Adebayo. “The success of the CNII Order depends on collective vigilance, transparency, and stakeholder synergy.”