The introduction of the 5G network was not without some misconceptions and in some cases outright resistance.

The introduction of the 5G network without doubt has brought with it numerous benefits as well as some challenges. Some benefits and opportunities that are yet to be deployed as challenges which even the experts are still battling to surmount. But while stakeholders and indeed the generality of Nigerians are still grappling with issues associated with the advent of the 5G network, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is advocating a measure of preparedness towards a possible introduction of the 6th and 7th generation networks.

Speaking at a conference in Lagos on ” Evolution and Future Risk Management in the Telecoms Industry: Harnessing Emerging Technologies and Trends”, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida said the telecommunications industry must be at the forefront of innovation, shaping the way we communicate, connect, and conduct business

Dr. Maida who stressed the need for effective risk management as a major tool for mitigating the challenges posed by technological advancements noted that the rapid technological changes and innovations experienced in the industry points to the need for collaboration, innovation, and proactive approach towards mitigating the risks associated with advancements in technology.

According to him, the discuss on the current landscape of
5G networks, which boast of wider attack surface due to the increased number of connected devices and denser network infrastructure implies that, “it is imperative to even cast our gaze into the future. We are witnessing the dawn of 6G technology, the next frontier in wireless communication, with promises of even faster speeds, lower latency, and groundbreaking applications, 6G has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience connectivity. However, with this advancement comes the responsibility to address new risks, from cybersecurity threats to ethical considerations, ensuring that we pave the way for a secure and inclusive digital future

” Today, we stand at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, where emerging technologies and trends present both unprecedented opportunities and challenges

” As we navigate through 5G and the uncharted territory of the next generations of wireless technologies, collaborative efforts among regulators, industry players, and other stakeholders become even more crucial for sharing best practices, threat intelligence, resources and implementing robust risk management strategies”

Reiterating the commitment of the NCC towards fostering an environment that encourages innovation and prioritises the security and stability of Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure, Dr Maida among other things advocates industry capacity building to create a culture of risk awareness and management.
” Building a culture of risk awareness is paramount. As an industry, we must empower our people with the knowledge and skills to proactively identify and report risks, embed security awareness and risk management practices throughout our business processes. Emerging technologies such as AI should be leveraged to generate data-driven insights needed to predict, detect, and respond to risks in real-time. We should also monitor evolving threats and vulnerabilities on a continuous basis and streamline incidence response processes to build a resilient telecom industry.”

The NCC helmsman in the bid to proactively position Nigeria for a possible introduction 6G or 7G network urged participants at the conference to not only address the challenges posed by current technologies but also anticipate and prepare for the opportunities and risks associated with the evolution towards 6G and beyond

On his part, Head, Corporate Panning, Strategy and Risk Management (HCPSRM), of the Commission, Mr. Kelechi Nwankwo maintained that the gathering was in line with the Commission’s efforts at reviewing the current operating standards and introducing new standards which are in line with international best practices to ensure resilience in the communications industry.

In his address on the theme, “Evolution and Future Risk Management in the Telecoms Industry: Harnessing Emerging Technologies and Trends,” Nwankwo said the exercise was part of a journey of exploration and discovery in a rapidly evolving landscape of the telecoms industry, hence the need to analyse, adapt, and effectively manage the risks that accompany innovation and development!.

He maintained that the conference is a testament to the collective commitment of stakeholders towards recognizing the evolving risks and challenges faced while embracing the immense opportunities emerging technologies and trends bring.

Citing the World Economic Forum (WEF) survey of global leaders on the five risks most likely to present material crisis on a global scale in 2024, with reports of AI-generated misinformation/disinformation as numbers two (2) and cyberattacks as number five (5). These two are technological risks. The number one (1) risk being extreme weather (environment) while numbers three (3) and four (4) are societal/political polarisation and cost-of-living crisis respectively, which are societal issues, Nwankwo explained that the discuss were meant to gain key insights from industry experts, share experiences, and develop strategies to navigate through this ever-changing landscape. How we can mitigate technological risks and use technological innovations to provide solutions to address environmental, societal, economic (disruption of supply chains for critical goods & resources) and geopolitical (attacks on critical infrastructure) challenges, appears critical.

It is on this note that he insisted we challenge our perspectives and embrace a forward-thinking mindset. The telecoms industry has gone through remarkable transformations, and it is our responsibility to stay informed, prepared, and proactive in managing the potential risks ahead.

Meanwhile, Dr Maidà who posited that looking
. beyond, the prospect of 7G technology also looms on the horizon, said, ” as we contemplate the possibilities, we must acknowledge that with each generational leap, we face not only technological advancements but also a fresh set of challenges. Anticipating and managing risks associated with 7G will require collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to ensure the seamless integration of this technology into our interconnected world.,’

” In addition to the evolution of connectivity,’ he added ‘ we must consider the implications of emerging technologies such as quantum technologies (computing, sensing, and communications), advanced artificial intelligence, and Block Chain (distributed ledger) technologies. These trends, when harnessed effectively, hold the potential to transform our industry positively.”

Dr. Maida who warned that these advancements in technology also introduce complexities that demand careful consideration in our risk management strategies, he expressed conviction, that ” together, we can ensure that the telecoms industry not only adapts to change but thrives at the forefront of technological innovation and build a future-proof industry.”