Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida, has said that in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the telecommunications industry has found itself at the forefront of innovation, there is a need for the telecommunications sector in the country to raise to the occasion and not be left behind.
Dr. Maida was speaking at the recently held NCC’s Telecoms Industry Risk Management Conference with the theme: “Evolution and Future Risk Management in the Telecoms Industry: Harnessing Emerging Technologies and Trends.”
The NCC boss said that the emerging technologies and trends in the world’s telecommunications environment are shaping the way people communicate, connect, and conduct business, hence the need to get ready and live up to expectations as a people.
“As we navigate this dynamic environment, the need for effective risk management becomes increasingly paramount. Today, we stand at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, where emerging technologies and trends present both unprecedented opportunities and challenges,” he said.
Dr. Maida, a man who has foresight, told his audience that Nigeria’s telecoms industry should look beyond the present and get prepared for the future and at the same time guard against threats that come with emerging technologies and trends.
“While we discuss the current landscape of 5G networks, which boast of wider attack surface due to the increased number of connected devices and denser network infrastructure, it is imperative to even cast our gaze into the future. We are witnessing the dawn of 6G technology, the next frontier in wireless communication.
“With promises of even faster speeds, lower latency, and groundbreaking applications, 6G has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience connectivity. However, with this advancement comes the responsibility to address new risks, from cybersecurity threats to ethical considerations, ensuring that we pave the way for a secure and inclusive digital future.
“Looking beyond, the prospect of 7G technology also looms on the horizon. As we contemplate the possibilities, we must acknowledge that with each generational leap, we face not only technological advancements but also a fresh set of challenges.
“Anticipating and managing risks associated with 7G will require collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to ensure the seamless integration of this technology into our interconnected world.
“In addition to the evolution of connectivity, we must consider the implications of emerging technologies such as quantum technologies (computing, sensing, and communications), advanced artificial intelligence, and blockchain (distributed ledger) technologies. These trends, when harnessed effectively, hold the potential to transform our industry positively. However, they also introduce complexities that demand careful consideration in our risk management strategies,” Dr Maida said.
