Nigeria Urged to Prioritize Local Digital Identity

During a technology convergence forum organized by the Nigerian Internet Registration Association (NIRA) in Abuja, stakeholders warned that Nigeria cannot build its digital future on foreign domain names. They stressed the importance of developing a robust digital identity to enhance economic growth.

Mr. Adesola Akinsaya, the chairman of NIRA, revealed that Nigeria loses an estimated $850 million annually by failing to fully leverage its own digital identity infrastructure. He urged the Nigerian government to prioritize the adoption of the ".ng" domain name to strengthen the country's digital independence.

Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu delivered a keynote address, referencing global tech conflicts and emphasizing the need for Nigeria to secure its digital ecosystem. The forum underscored that digital independence does not equate to isolation from the global internet but rather enhances security, resilience, and competitiveness in the digital space.