General News
.ng Domain Offers Identity, Security on Cyber space–Uduma
Mary Uduma is the president, executive board, Nigeria internet Registration Association (NiRA). She assumed the role in September 2010, after serving as vice-president since 2009.
Uduma has also served as member of NiRA’s Interim Board of Trustee and was a director of Consumer Affairs Bureau with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) where worked for over 16 years.
The NiRA President is a Chartered Accountant and had worked at Deloitte and Touché, before joining NiRA.
Her portfolio also includes work at a public accounting firm and a bank. She is a member of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). She spoke to peter ugwu on a wide range of issues.
NiRA’s Achievements
The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) started in 2009 and we had only 2,000 domain names then.
Over the years, we have been progressing. We have raised, not just funds, but the uptake of domain names have increased from 2,000 to about 60,000. That is a lot of achievement owing to the rate of adoption, understanding of the importance and governments’ support or interest in the scheme.
We just had our annual general meeting where we reported that our domain names grew more than 50%; from 10,000 to 16,000 within the year under review.
Although, we have not reached the peak, at the same time, it is an achievement. That is why we coming up with some interventions that will encourage Nigerians-students, small scale businesses, artisans, etc., to register on n.g.
Nigerians and .ng Adoption
The reason it appears Nigerians are skeptical about .ng domain name adoption, migration or switchover is based on the obvious belief that made in Nigeria products are not genuine.
But, over the years, we have proven to them that have signed on to the domain name that it is secured as any foreign domain name they might want to align themselves to.
Nigerians and Foreign Domain Names
On our part, we have gone to the extent of easing the registration periods; such that within 24 hours you can get done with your registration.
It is just like .com, but people are still looking as: What is that? Am I sure it works? Is it not 419 (fraudulent)? However, we are making breakthroughs, especially with the Federal and State Governments (through the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)) on our side by saying they must be on .gov.ng, every other business person would like to follow-suit.
We have at various occasions highlighted the important of .ng; a Nigeria’s Code Top Level domain name, an Internet top-level domain generally used or reserved for Nigeria only.
General, the awareness level is still low; that is why we are eager to educate, inform and mobilize the people. It was as a result of our advocacy that even the Government thought of embracing .gov.ng. We are committed to work with the registrars; they are our partners and channels to achieve this.
Incentives to Drive Public Interests
The intervention we are bringing to the fore is such that those who have domain names, but have not been able to develop a website, we want to encourage them on that.
They registered with the Registrars, but presently offline, so we want to make sure they are online. With a token (amount of money) they will join the league of website owners and users.
Registrars Complaints
Although, the registrars have sought for reduction in the amount they remit to NiRA, but we are relent enough. We are not taking much from them; we have even gone ahead to remove any CAP on it.
We told them, from whatever u sell just give us a little amount. It is no longer percentage based. We just need little amount of money to run the secretariat; pay our bills, etc.
MDAs Yet to Subscribe to Nigeria’s Domain Name
Yes, there are cases of ministries, departments and agencies of the government who are yet to give-in to .ng domain name, but that is going to change.
With a steering committee on switch to .gov.ng, there are programmes lined out to ensure, for instance, every civil servant adopts at the work place.
The truth of the matter is that domain name switch over is work in progress and we are making progress.
August Deadline for .ng Internet Domain Switch Over
Yes, in a bid to protect state apparatuses from deliberate and unintended abuse, NiRA came up with the deadline for State Governments, Ministries and parastatals as well as local governments in the country have till August this year to host their websites on the country’s name .ng top level domain.
Apart from offering a cover to the assignees, the country will, through the process, set up and operate a unified ICT infrastructure platform that permeates through all tiers of government and its agencies.
It is not news that the creation of the .ng domain-based websites and email addresses followed discovery that some civil servants have inadvertently transmitted sensitive government data and information through their own free email addresses which pose national security challenges.
To meet the deadline, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is collaborating with NIRA to ensure a smooth migration for the states and local governments.
The decision was reached by the council involved to rally all stakeholders for wholistic implementation.
ICT Professionals Missing at National Conference
I wouldn’t know why ICT professional bodies were not invited. However, I know that there are ICT professionals who are part of the conference, representing other groups. I can point out one or two people who are ICT professionals who are there.
Because it is a constitutional matter NBA will be given the prominence. There are many Institutes in the country; I wouldn’t know if there were given prominence.
Institutions and Domain Name Registration
There is a zone dedicated to educational institutions, the .edu.ng. It’s not only the educational institutions that are given priority.
The military, businesses, in fact, every sector has its designation.
Why Businesses, Individuals Should Switch To .ng Domain
First, as an organization in Nigeria, n.g is your identity on the cyberspace. It is your ICT currency. If you must trade on the cyberspace in Nigeria, trade with the currency.
Security, Skeptics And The Domain Name
There is no string of internet domain that is more secured than .ng. We have said this time without number. In fact, .ng registrars with the approval of NIRA are planning promos aimed at creating awareness on .ng.
Just few days ago, the American government warned the citizens and businesses to stop using Explorer due to security implications.
For instance, if someone takes your name under .com, the process of getting it back is long, but with us the process is seamless and fast. We are also signing NiRA on Domain Name System Security Extension (DNSSEC) which is the highest level The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has provided. Our practices are in line with the international best standards and the infrastructures also.
Centenary Celebration and Free Domain Name Registrations
We now have the (centenary) registrars. They are the ones to give the domain names out, not directly by NiRA.
When they have done so and from their reports we can ascertain. We just finished the first phase consultations with them.
And we are going to run it for hundred days. And we are going to begin by the next quarter.
General News
NIS Deploys Advanced Surveillance Masts, other Critical Infrastructure to Boost Border Security
Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has said that under the first phase of its e-border solution, surveillance masts equipped with 24-hour thermal and optical monitoring capabilities have been deployed across several border locations, providing surveillance coverage of 10 to 15 kilometres during the day and up to 5 kilometres at night.
The service also assured that it will continue to modernise border security management through the deployment of advanced technology and critical infrastructure.
DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, spokesman for the NIS, who made this known during a news briefing by Spokespersons for security, defence and law enforcement agencies in Abuja, said that the phase two of the e-border solution is expected to expand coverage to additional land border points.
Akinlabi said the Service has also established an Integrated Operating Centre (IOC) to serve as a central hub for real-time intelligence gathering, surveillance, and data harmonisation relating to foreign nationals.
He said the NIS recorded significant operational successes in strengthening border security, combating transnational crime, and enhancing migration management between January and May 2026.
“During the reporting period, the Service intensified enforcement operations against irregular migration and related transnational crimes, resulting in the repatriation of 567 foreign nationals for violations of Nigeria’s immigration laws and regulations.
“In addition, six foreign natio nals were deported, comprising four individuals arrested for their involvement in a visa racketeering syndicate and two others who were deported after completing prison sentences for criminal offences.
“The Service also strengthened efforts to curb identity fraud and abuse of national documentation. Enforcement operations led to the recovery of 47 National Identification Number (NIN) cards from irregular migrants, while 21 stowaways were apprehended at various seaports as they attempted to illegally enter or exit the country through unauthorised means.”
Akinlabi said aside enforcement activities, the Service continued to invest in preventive and community-based initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of irregular migration and cross-border crime.
“In March 2026, the Seme Border Command conducted sensitisation programmes for drivers’ associations, commercial motorcyclists, and community stakeholders to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration practices.
“Similarly, the Idi-Iroko Border Command carried out public awareness campaigns across markets, motor parks, and schools to educate border communities on the dangers and security implications of trans-border crimes.”
Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PufferPay Limited will deliver the keynote paper at the 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2026 at Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The theme of the Roundtable is: Fintech: Driving the Future of Digital Financial Ecosystem in Nigeria. Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga is a graduate of Computer Engineering from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State.
He is a technology entrepreneur and business leader with a strong track record in building and scaling innovative digital and enterprise solutions across Africa.
As the CEO of PufferPay, he drives the company’s vision to deliver seamless, secure and inclusive payment solutions tailored for emerging markets.
He is also the Chief Executive Officer of Pufferfish Technology Limited, a Pan-African IT and consulting firm specialising in software development, data analytics and systems integration for both public and private sector clients.
Under his leadership, the company has established strategic partnerships with globally recognised technology providers, including industry leaders in enterprise computing and analytics.
Pufferfish Technologies Limited has in a few years of its existence, birthed PufferPay, a fintech payment business created to enhance financial inclusion and payments facilitation in Africa.
PufferPay is created with best-in-class technology for transaction speed and security that guarantees top-range service delivery to its growing customers.
Reacting to the development, the Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Business Journal Media Group, Prince Cookey said:
“Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga represents the next generation of tech leaders in the fintech space in Nigeria and Africa. His laudable accomplishments as the CEO of PufferPay Limited deserve accolades. He has positioned PufferPay as a leading player in the digital financial ecosystem in Nigeria and emerging corporate tentacles across the continent. Accordingly, stakeholders attending the 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 would be looking forward to a robust conversation on the State of the Fintech market today and tomorrow.”
The Special Guests of Honour include Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, Commissioner for Insurance/CEO, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) while Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) will Chair the event.
The Guest of Honour is Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe, President/Chairman of Council, NCRIB.
Distinguished members of the Panel include:
- Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE)
- Mrs. Idu Okeahialam, Group Managing Director/CEO, Royal Exchange Plc
- Mr. Jide Orimolade, Managing Director/CEO, Stanbic IBTC Insurance Limited
- Dr. Obioha Oti, President, Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN)
- Mr. Sarafadeen Fasasi, President, Association of Financial Inclusion Agents of Nigeria (AFIAN)
- Chidubem Emelumadu, Ecosystem Lead (Africa), Lisk
The revolutionary success story of Moniepoint, Opay, PalmPay, Flutterwave and others in the digital payment system in Nigeria represents a positive expansion of the financial services sector in the country.
With millions of Nigerians and businesses lacking access to basic financial services, the importance of Fintechs remain sacrosanct in achieving substantial level of Financial Inclusion and expanding the frontiers of the industry.
According to AI Overview, Fintechs in Nigeria have revolutionised the financial landscape by dramatically increasing access to banking services, driving, for example, a 20% increase in financial inclusion and helping to bring the banked population to roughly 63%. These firms have introduced faster, affordable digital payments, lending, and investment services, forcing traditional banks to adopt digital transformation.
On investment, AI Overview stated: “Fintechs in Nigeria dominate the tech landscape, securing 35% of total tech funding ($2 billion total) in 2024, with over 430 companies attracting roughly 36% of all African fintech investment. Despite global challenges, the sector remains highly resilient, driven by high demand, with significant deals including Moniepoint’s $110 million series C.”
In January 2026, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) granted national licences to Moniepoint, Opay etc, giving them the regulatory authority to operate across the 36 States of the Federation. The decision firmly underscores the great strides by Fintechs in driving Financial Inclusion and supporting sustainable economic growth in the country.
The 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 aims to underscore the positive contribution of Fintechs in deepening Financial Inclusion, expanding access to financial services and contributing to economic growth in the country.
Expected participants at the Roundtable include regulators, operators from key sectors of the economy, media and members of the public.
The Bank of Industry (BoI), Nigeria’s foremost Development Finance Institution (DFI), has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), setting the stage for deeper economic cooperation, expanded investment flows, and stronger industrial partnerships between Nigeria and Belgium.
The agreement was signed during a high-level breakfast meeting jointly hosted by BoI and the NBCC under the theme, “Scaling Operations, Expanding Capacity, and Accessing Competitive Finance.” The event convened senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, development partners, MSMEs, and private sector stakeholders committed to advancing bilateral trade and industrial development.
Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, the Executive Director, Corporate Finance, Sustainability and Investments, Mr. Rotimi Akinde, described the partnership as a strategic milestone in BoI’s drive to expand global collaborations that accelerate Nigeria’s industrial transformation.
“As Nigeria’s leading Development Finance Institution, the Bank of Industry has consistently recognised that sustainable industrial development is built not only on access to finance but also on enduring strategic partnerships.
“This collaboration with the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce reflects our commitment to creating stronger international business corridors that unlock investment, facilitate technology transfer, support MSMEs, and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness,” he said.
Akinde noted that Belgium remains one of Europe’s most dynamic trading and investment destinations, making the partnership an important platform for promoting co-investment opportunities, export development, enterprise growth, and knowledge exchange between businesses in both countries.
The two-year renewable MoU establishes a framework for joint business forums, investment roadshows, trade missions, business matchmaking, enterprise capacity development, and increased promotion of BoI’s financing solutions to Belgian investors and businesses operating in Nigeria.
The collaboration is also expected to improve access to foreign direct investment, expand export-oriented industrial projects, and create stronger commercial linkages between BoI-supported enterprises and the Belgian business community.
Delivering the welcome address, His Excellency Pieter Leenknegt, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Nigeria, commended the growing economic relationship between both countries and expressed optimism that the partnership would create new opportunities for businesses on both sides.
The General Manager of the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce, Marc Eeckhout, described the agreement as a practical platform for translating business interest into measurable economic outcomes.
“This Memorandum of Understanding represents more than an institutional partnership; it creates a structured bridge between Belgian innovation and Nigerian enterprise. By working closely with the Bank of Industry, we are opening new pathways for investment, technology exchange, and business collaboration that will enable companies from both countries to scale with confidence while contributing to sustainable industrial development,” he said.
The breakfast dialogue featured presentations on business expansion, industrial financing, and competitiveness, with contributions from industry leaders, including Engr. Vincent Adegbotolu, Managing Director/CEO of DWC Engineering, and Mudiaga Okumagba, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Direct Logistics Plus.
The partnership aligns with BoI’s 2025–2027 Corporate Strategy, which prioritises industrialisation, MSME development, youth and skills, women’s economic empowerment, climate finance, digital transformation, infrastructure, and export promotion. With assets valued at over ₦6.8 trillion, the Bank continues to strengthen strategic international partnerships that support the Federal Government’s industrialisation agenda while creating jobs, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Through the collaboration, BoI expects to attract new investment opportunities from the Belgian business ecosystem, increase financing for high-impact industrial projects, strengthen export value chains, and improve the investment readiness of Nigerian enterprises through joint advisory and capacity-building initiatives.
The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to working with global partners to unlock long-term capital, accelerate industrial growth, and position Nigeria as a competitive investment destination within Africa and beyond.
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