The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a strong call to action, urging telecommunications consumers across Nigeria to take greater personal responsibility for their safety in the digital space. This advisory comes in response to escalating cyber risks that threaten individuals and the nation's critical infrastructure.
Rising Threats in Nigeria's Digital Ecosystem
In a statement released on 1 January 2026, the Commission, represented by Adeyemi Adepetun, highlighted the growing dangers tied to our increased dependence on mobile phones, computers, and internet services. The NCC warned that this reliance has made consumers vulnerable to a spectrum of threats, including sophisticated hacking attempts, pervasive online scams, damaging malware attacks, and devastating identity theft. Alarmingly, the Commission noted that many of these breaches are initiated by a single careless click from an unsuspecting user.
The regulator emphasized that the foundation of a secure digital Nigeria begins with individual responsibility. While the NCC has a broad mandate covering regulation, policy enforcement, and technical support, it stressed that consumers must be the first line of defense in protecting themselves and their communities.
NCC's Multi-Pronged Approach to Cybersecurity
For years, the NCC has actively promoted cybersecurity within the telecommunications sector. Its strategy includes sustained public awareness campaigns, the development of robust regulatory frameworks, and the enforcement of minimum security standards for all service providers. A key component of its operational response is the NCC Computer Security Incident Response Team (NCC-CSIRT), which is dedicated to handling and mitigating cyber incidents.
Furthermore, the Commission collaborates closely with vital industry stakeholders and provides extensive resources to encourage safer internet practices. All these efforts are aligned with the overarching goal of safeguarding consumers and protecting Nigeria's Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) from disruptive attacks.
The Essential A-Z Guide for Consumer Protection
To empower Nigerians, the NCC has released a practical set of 'A–Z tips' designed to reduce exposure to cyber threats and shield online identities. The Commission asserts that following these practices can significantly enhance personal security in cyberspace. "By following these practices, consumers can greatly reduce the risk of cyberthreats and protect their online identities," the NCC stated.
The cornerstone recommendations for maintaining good cyber hygiene include:
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an essential extra layer of security to your personal accounts.
- Firewall Protection: Ensure a firewall is active on your device to block unauthorized access.
- Guard Personal Info: Exercise extreme caution when sharing any personal details online.
- HTTPS Secure Connection: Always look for "https" in a website's URL before entering sensitive information.
- Install Updates Promptly: Regularly update your device's operating system, browser, and all software to patch security flaws.
- Keep Antivirus Updated: Maintain up-to-date antivirus software to protect your devices from malware.
- Lock Your Devices: Use a strong password, PIN, or biometric lock like a fingerprint to secure your devices.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your financial and social media accounts for any suspicious activity.
The Commission also advised Nigerians to be highly vigilant against suspicious emails or messages and to avoid conducting sensitive online activities over unsecured public networks. Adherence to this comprehensive guide is presented as a critical step towards building a more resilient and secure digital environment for all.
