By Juliet Umeh

The Nigeria Internet Registration Association, NiRA, has reported significant growth in Nigeria’s digital identity sector, with .ng domains under management reaching 229,583 in 2024.

The announcement was made during NiRA’s 17th Annual General Meeting, AGM, which also featured the election of a new Executive Board of Directors to steer the association through its next phase.

Speaking at the hybrid AGM, held both at the NiRA Secretariat and virtually, President of NiRA, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, described 2024 as a year of “remarkable innovation and progress.”

He disclosed that the association recorded 100,785 new .ng domain registrations and 67, 224 renewals. Additionally, 23 new registrars were accredited, demonstrating the expansion of the .ng domain ecosystem and improved collaboration with stakeholders.

The AGM brought together over 325 members, stakeholders, and media representatives, providing a platform for strategic reflection on a transformative year.

Key Highlights: DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) were implemented to strengthen the security and integrity of the .ng namespace.

A Registrar Incentive Programme was launched in Q3 2024 to reward top-performing registrars driving .ng domain adoption.

Strategic collaborations were deepened with agencies such as NITDA, NDPC, LCCI, NCS, and ISN Hubs.

NiRA launched Tech Convergence 1.0, a new flagship event examining the intersection of technology and creativity.

The 17th .ng Awards honored 19 organizations and 16 individuals for their outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

Reaffirming NiRA’s commitment to digital empowerment, Akinsanya highlighted ongoing initiatives by the Ndukwe Kalu Foundation and the .ng Academy, both aimed at building digital capacity among Nigerians.

The AGM concluded with the election of the following new board members:

Mrs. Mary Olaseni, Mrs. Abibat Olatunji and Mr. Ahmad Mukoshy

In addition, incumbents Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata and Mr. Destiny Amana assumed new roles within the board. NiRA expressed gratitude to the outgoing members for their service and contributions to the growth of the .ng domain.