From DORCAS PANKYES, Abuja
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), delivered an insightful speech at the Telecoms Industry Risk Management Conference in Lagos, focusing on the theme of “Evolution and Future Risk Management in the Telecoms Industry: Harnessing Emerging Technologies and Trends.”
In his opening remarks, Dr. Maida highlighted the importance of effective risk management in the telecommunications sector, given the rapid technological advancements and the evolving landscape of connectivity. He emphasized the significance of addressing current and future risks associated with emerging technologies, including the imminent transition to 6G networks and the projections towards 7G technology.
Acknowledging the potential benefits of advancements such as quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, and blockchain, Dr. Maida stressed the need for cautious consideration of the complexities they introduce. He underscored the NCC’s commitment to promoting innovation while safeguarding the security and stability of telecom infrastructure, calling for collaborative efforts among industry stakeholders to implement robust risk management strategies.
Dr. Maida emphasized the necessity of building a culture of risk awareness within the industry, empowering individuals to proactively identify and report risks while integrating security awareness and risk management practices into business processes. He advocated for leveraging technologies like AI to generate data-driven insights for real-time risk detection and response, as well as continuous monitoring of evolving threats to enhance incident response capabilities.
Encouraging discussions on both current challenges and future opportunities in the telecoms industry, Dr. Maida urged participants to anticipate and prepare for the forthcoming transitions to 6G and beyond. By fostering a proactive and collaborative approach to risk management, he believes the industry can not only adapt to change but also excel at the forefront of technological innovation.
As the conference progressed, Dr. Maida’s vision of a forward-thinking and enlightening event set the tone for productive dialogue and strategic planning to navigate the evolving landscape of telecommunications technology.
In his part, Mr. Kelechi Nwankwo, Head of Corporate Planning, Strategy & Risk Management (HCPSRM), highlighted the commission’s commitment to reviewing and enhancing industry standards in line with international best practices to ensure resilience in the communications sector. Emphasizing the dynamic nature of the telecoms industry, he underscored the need to analyze, adapt, and effectively manage the risks associated with rapid innovation and technological advancement.
