NITDA Implements DNSSEC for Enhanced Cybersecurity in MDAs

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has incorporated Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) into its cybersecurity assessment criteria for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This initiative aims to bolster the security of government digital infrastructure.

NITDA Director General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi announced this policy during a cybersecurity awareness webinar organized by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) on Monday. The webinar was part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month and focused on the theme “Securing Nigeria’s Digital Foundation: DNSSEC, the .ng Domain, and the Future of National Cyber Resilience.” NITDA emphasized that government institutions must secure their domain names and not just register them.

DNSSEC enhances the Domain Name System by adding digital signatures to verify the authenticity of domain name records. NiRA President Adesola Akinsanya noted the importance of DNSSEC as a protective layer against rising cyber threats, while also warning that improper implementation could lead to accessibility issues.