Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida has advocated organized collaboration of concerned stakeholders in the fight against the rising incidence of digital violence.
He made the call in Lagos on Friday while speaking on a topic, “Nigeria’s Experience of Digital Violence and How to Stem the Tide,” at the celebration of the World Day for the Safety of Journalists which was organised by the Media Centre for Promotion of Safety Awareness (MCPoSA).
According to him, combating the menace of digital violence in the country required the collaboration of the government, regulators, operators, security agencies and the society as a whole.
“Addressing digital violence requires a collaborative approach. We collaborate with law enforcement agencies and other regulatory bodies to combat cyber threats and crimes.
“The rise of digital violence demands urgent attention from society as a whole. By strengthening legal frameworks, innovating digital surveillance methods, and fostering awareness, we can curb digital violence and create a safer environment for journalists to fulfill their essential role in society.”
Dr. Maida, who was represented by Mr. Henry Ojiokpota, the Controller of the Lagos Zonal Office of NCC, said that digital violence not only posed threats to individuals, but also grave harm to the society at large.
He identified journalists as one of the professionals exposed to digital violence in their daily activities, explaining that while the digital age had empowered them to share information and opinions like never before, it had equally brought upon them attendant dangers.
He said that journalists now paid for the freedom of expression they enjoyed through digital violence manifesting as online harassment, cyberbullying, misinformation and hate speech.
“The freedom of expression that the Internet offers is what gives power to journalists and citizens to share information and opinions like never before. However, it has also given rise to digital violence, posing threats to individuals and society.”
The NCC boss said in order to protect journalists and the larger society, the NCC planned some strategies to create a safer digital space for everyone, such as strengthening legal frameworks, innovating digital surveillance methods and fostering adequate awareness.
“We are committed to upholding the rights of every Nigerian. Our activities are carried out in a way that ensures citizens are not exposed to online violence, which applies also to journalists.”
Maida said that the NCC, as a regulatory authority for the telecom industry, recognised the significance of media practitioners and media organisations and was focused on ensuring that communication networks in Nigeria were secure, reliable and accessible to all.
He said the NCC had taken proactive measures and collaborating with various stakeholders to implement child online protection programs and raising proper awareness about online safety among children and parents.
Maida also disclosed that the NCC was also investing in awareness campaigns to promote safe online practices.
