I sat through a workshop for Law Enforcement Agents (LEAs) last week, I listened and understood the frustration that LEAs face, in trying to obtain information and thus prosecute cyber criminals in Africa.
Whereas laws may vary across jurisdictions, some organizations on the Internet simply take the somewhat easier route, which is to choose not to do business with people of certain nations, including Nigeria.
There are very many blacklists out there, that simply list Nigerian businesses and untrusted and thus prevent them from competing globally.
.ng Domain names are sometimes targeted as well as Nigerian IP addresses. If we are to compete globally, we must begin to look at the various options available to give succor to Nigerian businesses.
I do not dispute the fact that there are some bad elements out there, who derive joy in Hacking, Fraud, identity theft, and many other cybercrimes.
However, there are many more innovative and enterprising businesses in Nigeria, that are playing second fiddle because they have some low reputation as decided by some unfair blacklists.
NIRA must now look at a mechanism for creating trust and giving Nigerian businesses, much more latitude and confidence to operate in cyberspace.
We must find ways to give a voice to all those who will normally will not have a voice on the Internet, because of the activities of some misguided elements.
I would want you to share your ideas with us, as we all ponder on the easiest want to lift this veil and create better trust on the net, for Nigerian business. Do not hesitate to drop me a line. Together, we can all achieve more!
Sunday Folayan, president of NiRA shared his ideas via NiRA’s enewsletter 100