BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The Nigerian Communications Commission NCC) has established the Nigeria IPv6 Council to promote faster adoption of Internet Protocol version 6 and improve the country’s digital strength, security, and independence.
At the launch in Lagos, the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Maida, described the move as a major step forward in Nigeria’s technological development.
He revealed that Nigeria’s IPv6 usage is about five percent, which is far below the global average of over 40 percent, stressing the need for urgent improvement.
Maida explained that IPv6 was introduced to solve the limitations of IPv4, particularly the shortage of available internet addresses.
He noted that the rapid expansion of 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and AI technologies has increased pressure on the existing IPv4 system.
According to him, adopting IPv6 is essential for national competitiveness, cybersecurity, and economic independence.
He emphasized that the transition will require collaboration among regulators, telecom operators, businesses, academic institutions, and government agencies, adding that the NCC is already working with the African Network Information Centre (AFRINIC) to build capacity.
The council will oversee the implementation of a National IPv6 Deployment Strategy aimed at positioning Nigeria among Africa’s leading adopters within three years, including monitoring progress and training professionals.
It will also engage key stakeholders such as internet service providers, data centres, and financial institutions, while recommending policies to accelerate adoption.
Meanwhile, Muhammed Rudman of the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria noted that continued reliance on IPv4, limited urgency among operators, funding challenges, and shortage of skilled manpower remain major obstacles, while Chris Uwaje called for modernization, innovation, and sustained investment to ensure successful transition.
