By Juliet Umeh

The Nigeria Internet Registration Association, NiRA, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the country’s digital identity as it marks 20 years of managing the nation’s country code top-level domain, .ng.
Reflecting on the milestone, the Association said the anniversary offers an opportunity to look back on its journey and recommit to a future “where every Nigerian, every institution and every business proudly thrives with .ng.”

NiRA President, Adesola Akinsanya, while reflecting on the past 20 years, said that NiRA has overseen significant progress in Nigeria’s digital landscape.
He said: “The .ng domain, once just a technical resource, has grown into a symbol of national pride, trust and digital independence.
“It anchors Nigeria’s presence on the global internet, empowers businesses, enhances cybersecurity and ensures that the value generated online remains within the Nigerian economy.

“This celebration is not just about the growth of a domain; it is about the evolution of Nigeria’s digital confidence. “For two decades, .ng has represented who we are: innovative, resilient and globally positioned. As we celebrate NiRA at 20, we reflect on our journey and recommit to a future where every Nigerian, every institution and every business proudly thrives with .ng,” Akinsanya said.

A key highlight of the 20th anniversary is the 8th .ng Awards, where NiRA will honour over 40 outstanding businesses, innovators, institutions and individuals who have demonstrated excellence in using the .ng domain to drive digital transformation, local innovation and global visibility.

Chairman of the 20th Anniversary and .ng Awards Planning Committee, Peter Oluka, described the event as a celebration of Nigeria’s digital excellence. He said: “The .ng Awards have become a national stage for celebrating champions of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. This year carries a deeper meaning because we are honouring not only innovation but also the people and institutions that have sustained the spirit of .ng for 20 years. It is a moment to appreciate our journey and spotlight those shaping Nigeria’s digital future.”

As part of the anniversary activities, NiRA will embark on a nationwide community walk to promote awareness of the .ng domain and educate the public on the importance of digital identity, cybersecurity and hosting local content. In addition, NiRA will support 20 secondary schools with digital infrastructure and educational-domain packages, including school-branded .ng domains, to enhance e-learning, digital literacy and technology leadership among young Nigerians.

NiRA’s Chief Operating Officer, Oluwaseyi Onasanya, said: “NiRA at 20 is not only a celebration of the past but an investment in the future. Our community walk and school support projects reflect our commitment to inclusive digital development. We want every community and every young Nigerian to understand that .ng is their gateway to opportunities—local, secure and globally recognized.”

To mark the historic milestone, NiRA will officially launch a book and documentary chronicling the evolution of the internet in Nigeria, the milestones of .ng adoption and the contributions of key pioneers and institutions. The publication will serve as a national digital archive, preserving Nigeria’s internet history for generations.

As Nigeria advances toward a fully digital and innovation-driven economy, NiRA has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national digital transformation policies, expanding local content, strengthening domain infrastructure and championing digital sovereignty.

The next decade, the Association said, promises greater adoption of the .ng domain across government, businesses, startups, educational institutions and the creative sector, solidifying .ng as the trusted digital home for all Nigerians.