NCC, judiciary forge partnership to build legal frameworks for Nigeria’s digital economy 

Joy Agwunobi

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Judicial Institute (NJI) have formalised a key partnership to drive Nigeria’s digital transformation, fostering stronger integration between the country’s legal frameworks and its evolving digital landscape.

This collaboration aims to address emerging challenges while creating a supportive legal environment that enhances the growth of the digital economy.

The official partnership was solidified during the 2024 Annual Workshop for Judges, which was organised by the NCC in collaboration with the NJI. The event themed “The Role of the Judiciary in Accelerating Digital Transformation in Nigeria,” brought together judicial officers, telecom regulators, and technology experts to explore the intersection of law and technology.

The workshop focused on how the judiciary can actively contribute to the country’s digital future by helping shape legal frameworks that are responsive to technological advancements.

In his opening remarks, Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, outlined the Commission’s vital role in Nigeria’s digital transformation, stressing its responsibility in overseeing the country’s communication infrastructure.

He emphasised that the NCC cannot navigate this transformation alone and that effective collaboration with stakeholders, particularly the judiciary, is crucial. “A functional digital economy is built on investor and consumer confidence, which cannot exist without the rule of law—something the judiciary provides,” Maida explained.

According to him, the judiciary is not a passive observer in the digital revolution; rather, it plays an active and ongoing role in shaping the legal frameworks that govern this technological era.

While the digital transformation has impacted all sectors, including communication and businesses, it has also introduced new legal challenges such as cybercrime, data privacy, and intellectual property rights.

He pointed out that for digital transformation to benefit everyone, the judiciary must stay flexible and adapt to these technological changes. “The judiciary must evolve alongside technology to make sure that everyone can access the benefits of this digital shift while managing the risks that comes with it,” Maida said“The law must be adaptable to the new realities of a digital world, where technology is at the centre of nearly every aspect of our economy and daily lives.”

In her keynote address, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institute,  highlighted the significant role technology plays in Nigeria’s economic system, driving advancements and facilitating globalisation.

She also emphasised that the judiciary must continuously evolve to remain relevant in the face of emerging challenges. “The role of the judiciary in the digital transformation cannot be understated,Judges must be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to deal with cases involving new technologies, such as telecommunications, digital banking, and e-commerce.”

Kekere-Ekun further addressed the growing concerns surrounding digital risks, particularly in the areas of cybercrime and data privacy. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms for financial transactions, communication, and entertainment, there is an urgent need for enhanced legal protection for consumers.

“Digital fraud and the misuse of personal data have become pressing concerns,” she noted. “It is essential that the judiciary plays an active role in enforcing laws that protect consumers from exploitation and ensure the integrity of digital transactions.”

Kekere-Ekun also underscored the need for effective regulation in the telecommunications sector to minimise risks and ensure consumer confidence in digital services. She called for continued collaboration between the telecommunications sector and the judiciary to address the challenges posed by the rapid pace of digital transformation.

Kekere-Ekun further highlighted the importance of continued education and training for judicial officers to equip them with the necessary skills to address issues in the digital age. “The judiciary must not only keep up with the technological changes but also anticipate potential legal issues arising from those changes.Through this collaboration with the NCC, we aim to ensure that the legal system remains relevant and effective in the face of an ever-changing digital world,” she said.