Forum to Deliberate on Practical Steps for Protecting Telecom Infrastructure in Nigeria
In a decisive move to galvanize the telecom industry around the implementation of the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Bill, the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA), in collaboration with the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), is organizing a high-level stakeholders’ forum.
The forum, scheduled to hold on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at CitiHeight Hotel, Ikeja, is themed “Industry Sustainability and CNII Conference 2025 – Way Forward”. It aims to explore actionable strategies to protect telecom infrastructure and ensure long-term industry sustainability in light of the recent CNII status conferred on the sector by the Federal Government.
While acknowledging the importance of the CNII designation, NITRA emphasized that mere government proclamation is not sufficient to guarantee infrastructure security. According to a statement issued by the association, several internal and operational challenges must first be addressed, including issues of standardization, regulatory compliance, and community engagement.
Key Issues for Deliberation
The forum will feature panel discussions and expert insights focused on answering pressing questions such as:
- How do we ensure full and effective implementation of the CNII Bill?
- Are there gaps in the Bill that require further scrutiny?
- What roles do key stakeholders—Federal and State governments, operators, consumers, regulators—play in CNII implementation?
- Are telecom companies aligning their operations with CNII provisions?
- What enforcement and awareness strategies are needed to ensure public compliance and security?
- How do we foster collaboration across stakeholders?
- What is the level of public awareness about CNII and how can it be improved?
- What are the sustainable pathways for the growth and development of telecommunications in Nigeria?
Expected Participants
The conference is expected to bring together a wide array of stakeholders, including:
- The Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy
- Licensed network operators
- Security and law enforcement agencies
- Regulatory bodies
- Infrastructure companies
- Consumer advocacy groups
- Media professionals
