…Judiciary’s Role in Accelerating Nigeria’s Digital Transformation Highlighted
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI), has successfully launched the 2024 edition of its Annual Judges Workshop at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. This year’s workshop, with the theme “The Role of the Judiciary in Accelerating Digital Transformation in Nigeria,” brings together distinguished judges, legal professionals, and stakeholders in the telecommunications sector to discuss the evolving legal and regulatory issues in the digital age.
In his welcome address, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission, emphasized the importance of the judiciary in supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation. He noted that the legal framework is essential for the protection and sustainability of the country’s telecommunication infrastructure, which serves as the backbone of the digital economy. Dr. Maida also highlighted the significance of the Presidential Order signed in July 2024, which designates all telecommunications infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), providing special protections to guard against vandalism, theft, and other disruptive activities.
“The judiciary’s role in interpreting and enforcing these protections will be critical in safeguarding Nigeria’s digital transformation,” Dr. Maida stated. “As the country’s digital economy expands, it is imperative that the judiciary remains a key partner in ensuring a robust and secure telecommunications sector.”
Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the NJI, delivered the keynote address, applauding the collaboration between the NCC and NJI in enhancing the legal knowledge of judicial officers in telecommunications law. Justice Kekere-Ekun underscored the growing need for the judiciary to adapt to the challenges posed by cybersecurity, digital contracts, and consumer protection in the telecommunications sector.
“The workshop’s theme is timely, as we witness the increasing reliance on digital services across all sectors, including banking, e-commerce, and telecommunications,” she said. “It is vital that the judiciary equips itself with the necessary technical and legal tools to adjudicate on disputes arising from the digital space, ensuring that the rule of law extends seamlessly into the digital realm.”
Throughout the workshop, expert sessions will explore key issues such as the protection of personal data, the enforcement of digital contracts, and the resolution of disputes in the telecommunications sector. Discussions will also focus on the role of the judiciary in shaping digital jurisprudence and fostering innovation in emerging technologies.
The workshop also aims to build on the efforts of the Nigerian Communications Commission to protect consumers from unfair practices and ensure the transparency and efficiency of the telecommunications sector. The collaboration between the judiciary and the NCC is expected to bolster investor and consumer confidence, paving the way for a more robust and secure digital economy.
Dr. Maida concluded his address by stressing the importance of collaboration between the NCC, the judiciary, and other stakeholders in advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation. “As we continue to embrace new technologies, it is vital that all sectors work together to ensure that digital advancements benefit all Nigerians and contribute to the country’s economic development.”
The workshop has received widespread support from key stakeholders in the judiciary, telecommunications, and legal sectors, all of whom are committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s legal frameworks evolve alongside the rapid advancements in technology.
