NCC Launches Internet Governance Working Group to Strengthen Online Safety, AI Accountability

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched an Internet Governance Working Group to strengthen online safety, promote accountability in artificial intelligence and support responsible digital development in Nigeria.

The initiative is intended to bring together relevant stakeholders to address emerging challenges in the country’s digital environment, including online harms, data protection, cybersecurity and the growing use of artificial intelligence technologies.

Internet governance involves the policies, technical standards and institutional arrangements that shape how the internet operates and how users, governments, businesses and other stakeholders interact online.

As digital platforms and AI-powered services become increasingly integrated into everyday life, concerns have grown over misinformation, online fraud, privacy violations, harmful content and the responsible use of automated systems.

The working group is expected to provide a platform for dialogue and cooperation among government agencies, telecommunications operators, technology companies, civil society organisations, researchers and other relevant participants.

Its focus on AI accountability is particularly relevant as automated tools are increasingly used to generate content, process personal information and support decisions across different sectors. Accountability measures can help establish clearer responsibilities for the development and deployment of these technologies.

The initiative also aligns with wider discussions about ensuring that digital innovation protects users’ rights while supporting economic growth and technological advancement.

Online safety remains an important policy concern in Nigeria, where growing internet access has expanded opportunities for communication, education, business and public participation. However, increased connectivity has also exposed users to digital risks that require coordinated responses from regulators, service providers and the public.

Through the working group, the NCC is expected to encourage stakeholder engagement on policy priorities, promote awareness of responsible internet use and contribute to discussions on emerging regulatory and technical issues.

Effective implementation will depend on sustained cooperation, clear responsibilities and practical measures that translate discussions into improved protections for internet users.

The launch marks another step in efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s participation in internet governance and address the challenges associated with a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.