By Angela Nwanodu
Anambra State Government has fully embraced the use of Nigerian Second Level domains and is currently playing a lead role in its implementation. This follows the Federal Government’s approval of the National Second Level Domain Policy which came into full implementation in February 2022. By this policy, all government establishments are mandated to use the Nigerian Second-Level Domains for all government websites and official email correspondences.
To implement the National Second Level Domain Policy, the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has been organizing webinar series and awareness campaigns. These initiatives aim to educate stakeholders, including government MDAs, on the value and benefits of Nigerian Second Level Domains.
The webinars have covered topics such as Web Server and DNS Management, as well as the structure and services offered by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA). The goal is to enhance expertise on second-level domains, improve government service delivery, ensure data safety, and drive the adoption of second-level domains across government MDAs in Nigeria.
Dr. Femi Adeluyi, Technical Assistant (Research & Development) to the Honorable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy emphasized in a statement that the rise in cyber-related incidents worldwide has compelled governments to develop policies to regulate and manage information and communication technologies within government institutions, particularly electronic correspondences.
So far, over 3,082 “.gov.ng” domains, 281 “.mil.ng” domains, and 1,446 “.edu.ng” domains have already been created as part of the implementation. NIRA, the body responsible for domain registration and management in Nigeria, is committed to supporting organizations in the adoption process.
Following the trend, the Anambra State Government has taken a lead role in implementing the Second Level Domains with at least 60% of it’s MDAs already registered for .gov.ng domains. Governor Soludo and all members of the executive council have also transitioned to these domains. The Anambra ICT Agency, under the leadership of Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, is in active collaboration with the State MDAs to ensure full compliance with the second-level domain policy and ensure the discontinuation of generic email usage.
By embracing Nigerian Second Level Domains, Anambra State Government aims to establish a secure and thriving digital economy while promoting transparency, accountability, and improved cybersecurity. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhanced digital governance in the State.