JUST IN: FG SET TO UNVEIL NEW INTERNET PROTOCOL VERSION FOR DIGITAL SECURITY

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The Federal Government is set to introduce the latest version of Internet Protocol, known as IPv6, to enhance the identification, numbering and tracking of Internet users and their devices in Nigeria.

This announcement was made during the IPv6 Driven Digital Summit, themed “Bringing Net 5.5G Into Reality: Inspiring New Growth,” organised by the National Information Technology Development Agency in collaboration with Huawei, the IPv6 Forum, and the IPv6 Council of Nigeria.

The new protocol is expected to improve the management and security of internet traffic, simplifying the monitoring and protection of online activities. This move will also align Nigeria with global standards for cybersecurity and digital infrastructure.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasised that Nigeria’s adoption of IPv6 positions it among the leading African nations embracing this advanced protocol.

He said, “With the adoption of IPv6, network providers in Nigeria can now offer more reliable services while enhancing the security of online transactions.”

The Minister highlighted the protocol’s potential to unmask cybercriminals, significantly boosting the country’s cybersecurity efforts.

He pointed out that the new protocol would enable authorities to more effectively identify and monitor internet traffic, creating a safer and more secure online environment for Nigerian citizens.

Tijani noted that only a few countries have fully adopted IPv6, making Nigeria’s transition a notable achievement.

“This is the standard used globally but only a few countries like the U.S., France, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are on IPv6; others are trying to catch up.

“The IPV6 is the latest protocol responsible for ensuring that online transactions and activities allow authorities to identify users, both for security purposes and ensuring appropriate usage of the internet space.

“Network providers will make sure the services they provide are always available by identifying where the traffic is coming from,” he said.

The Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasised that implementing IPv6 in Nigeria would require minimal investment.

Citing research from the global consultancy firm Roland Berger, Inuwa noted that the adoption of IPv6 could open up a $10 trillion global market.

He further explained that most existing devices are already compatible with IPv6, so the main priority would be to develop a clear strategy and policy to ensure operators comply with the migration.

He stated, “This migration to IPv6 is expected to open new economic opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity posture.”