NCC reiterates commitment to combating digital threats against journalists

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

Concerned about various threats taxes by journalists especially online while carrying out their job, the the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has reiterated the commitment of the Commission to safeguard the journalists.

He said this during the World Day for the Safety of Journalists event hosted by the Media Centre for Promotion of Safety Awareness (MCPoSA) at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) recently.

Maida, who was represented by the Controller of the NCC, Lagos Zonal Office, Henry Ojiokpota, gave an insightful speech on “Nigeria’s Experience of Digital Violence and How to Stem the Tide.”

He highlighted the challenges faced by journalists, both online and offline, and outlined strategies to mitigate the issues.

The digital age has empowered journalists and citizens to share information and opinions like never before, but this freedom of expression comes with a prize.

It has given rise to digital violence, manifesting as online harassment, cyberbullying, misinformation, and hate speech.

These forms of violence not only pose threats to individuals but also harm society at large.

Journalists are responsible for shedding light on these issues, holding perpetrators accountable, and ensuring the truth prevails.

“The freedom of expression that the Internet offers is what gives power to journalists and citizens to share information and opinions like never before. However, it has also given rise to digital violence, posing threats to individuals and society,” Maida, said.

“The NCC, as a regulatory authority for the telecom industry, recognizes the significance of media practitioners and media organizations. The commission is focused on ensuring that communication networks in Nigeria are secure, reliable, and accessible to all. To address the challenges of digital violence, the NCC has taken proactive measures. It has collaborated with various stakeholders and implemented child online protection programs, raising awareness about online safety among children and parents.

“We are committed to upholding the rights of every Nigerian. Our activities are carried out in a way that ensures citizens are not exposed to online violence, which applies also to journalists.”

Highlighting the need for collaboration and education, Maida emphasized: “Addressing digital violence requires a collaborative approach. We collaborate with law enforcement agencies and other regulatory bodies to combat cyber threats and crimes. Empowering individuals with knowledge and tools to protect themselves online is the first line of defense.

“Empowering individuals with knowledge and tools to protect themselves online is the first line of defence. The NCC invests in awareness campaigns to promote safe online practices and has established channels for reporting cybercrimes.

“The rise of digital violence demands urgent attention from society as a whole. The NCC, in collaboration with journalists and responsible citizens, aims to create a safer digital space for everyone. Strengthening legal frameworks, innovating digital surveillance methods, and fostering awareness, are some of its strategies.

“By strengthening legal frameworks, innovating digital surveillance methods, and fostering awareness, we can curb digital violence and create a safer environment for journalists to fulfill their essential role in the society. Ultimately, these efforts are geared towards building a more inclusive and secure digital Nigeria,” he stated.