The 2024 National Workshop for Justices and Judges on Legal Issues in Telecommunications was inaugurated in Lagos, drawing attention to the intersection of law, technology, and Nigeria’s digital transformation goals. Held at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, the event was organized by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI).
In her keynote address, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of NJI’s Board of Governors, emphasized the judiciary’s crucial role in supporting digital transformation efforts in Nigeria. She highlighted the theme, The Role of the Judiciary in Accelerating Digital Transformation in Nigeria, as timely, noting that technological advancements in telecommunications are pivotal for Nigeria’s economic growth and global competitiveness.
Justice Kekere-Ekun underscored two key issues: cybersecurity and consumer protection in an increasingly digital space. “The increased risk of personal data misuse by unscrupulous actors and deficiencies in the banking sector highlight the urgent need for consumer protection strategies,” she remarked. Addressing these legal concerns requires both a robust understanding of telecommunications law and a commitment to uphold justice.
The Chief Justice expressed optimism that the workshop would equip judicial officers with the necessary skills to handle complex telecommunications disputes, ensuring that rulings remain aligned with global best practices and contribute to a secure digital environment in Nigeria. She also lauded the NCC’s efforts in protecting consumers from unfair practices, committing the judiciary’s support to foster transparency and efficiency in dispute resolution.
The opening session also featured remarks from Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, who detailed the commission’s role in bolstering Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure to facilitate digital transformation. He emphasized the NCC’s commitment to safeguard telecommunications infrastructure, now designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure under a Presidential Order signed by President Bola Tinubu in July 2024.
“With this policy framework, Nigeria now has strengthened protections for key telecommunications assets, including base stations and fiber optic networks, deterring acts of vandalism and tampering,” Dr. Maida stated. He emphasized that, as the judiciary confronts new digital challenges, collaboration with the NCC remains pivotal to a secure, efficient digital future.
Dr. Maida also pointed out the evolving legal landscape as it pertains to digital contracts, intellectual property, and the need for a stable regulatory environment that can foster innovation. He concluded by expressing optimism about the judiciary’s role in guiding Nigeria’s telecommunications law and fostering a climate of digital justice.
The workshop includes sessions on critical issues such as data protection, cybersecurity, and the regulation of digital contracts. It is expected to reinforce the judiciary’s role in protecting digital rights, interpreting laws in digital contexts, and promoting innovation in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
As Nigeria advances in its digital transformation journey, the joint efforts of the judiciary and the NCC highlight a shared vision for a digitally inclusive future, ensuring that technological progress aligns with legal safeguards to protect both consumers and investors.
The workshop will continue with presentations by industry experts, discussions on current challenges, and collaborative brainstorming to define the role of law in Nigeria’s telecommunications and digital ecosystem.
