The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) has unveiled Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) for the .ng domain, strengthening protection against escalating cyber threats nationwide.

The initiative is expected to enhance trust in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, particularly as online transactions, government services and digital communications continue expanding across sectors.

NiRA President, Adesola Akinsanya, on Thursday described the deployment as “a major leap” in safeguarding Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and boosting global confidence in .ng domains.

He said the move aligned Nigeria with global best practices in internet governance, positioning the country as a more secure destination for digital business and innovation.

Akinsanya disclosed this at a media advocacy and capacity-building workshop for members of the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association in Lagos.

He emphasised that the media plays a vital role in educating the public on digital safety, cyber hygiene and the importance of secure online identities.

He described DNSSEC as “a critical layer of protection” for internet users and organisations against evolving cyber threats and malicious online activities.

The workshop’s theme was ‘The Role of Media in Advancing Nigeria’s Digital Identity’.

“DNSSEC is not just a technical upgrade; it is a trust framework assuring users that .ng domains are authentic and secure.

“In an era of rising cyber threats, this deployment reinforces confidence and protects Nigeria’s online integrity,” Akinsanya said.

He noted that the milestone followed years of collaboration among technical partners, policymakers and the global internet community.

According to him, sustained investment in infrastructure and stakeholder engagement was crucial to achieving the successful deployment.

NiRA technical expert, Ahmad Mukoshy, explained that the Domain Name System, which directs internet traffic, was a key target for cyberattacks.

He warned that vulnerabilities within the DNS could expose users to fraud, phishing schemes and data breaches if left unprotected.

Mukoshy cited DNS hijacking, where users were secretly redirected to fraudulent websites, as a major and persistent threat to online security.

Mukoshy, also a NiRA Executive Board Director, said DNSSEC mitigated risks through cryptographic authentication, preventing data alteration or interception.

He explained that the technology added a verification layer, ensuring that users connect to legitimate websites rather than malicious replicas.

“Without DNSSEC, attackers can manipulate traffic and impersonate platforms. With it, every response is verified, making such attacks extremely difficult,” he said.

He cited past incidents affecting financial institutions as evidence of vulnerabilities in unsecured DNS systems and the urgency of stronger protections.

Mukoshy added that the deployment aligned Nigeria with countries adopting advanced security standards, enhancing the resilience and credibility of the .ng domain.

He noted that improved domain security could attract foreign investment by strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.

He urged organisations, especially media houses, to adopt .ng domains and enable DNSSEC to strengthen trust and protect users.

“Using .ng goes beyond preference; it reflects sovereignty, authenticity and security for organisations operating within Nigeria,” he said.

Participants were also tasked with raising public awareness on internet security and simplifying technical concepts for wider understanding.

They were encouraged to bridge the gap between complex digital systems and everyday users through clear, accessible reporting.

The workshop forms part of NiRA’s broader efforts to deepen media capacity and promote advocacy for a safer, more secure internet ecosystem.

It also underscores the association’s commitment to building a resilient digital future anchored on trust, security and informed public participation. (NAN)