By Juliet Umeh 

The Nigeria Internet Registration Association, NiRA, has recognised more than 40 individuals and organisations for their contributions to the country’s digital growth.

The recognition took place as NiRA celebrated its 20th anniversary alongside the 8th .ng Awards in Lagos, with the theme: “20 Years, One Identity: Powering Nigeria with .ng.”

The anniversary featured a live radio engagement, a community walk, and the launch of the NiRA History Documentary, all aimed at highlighting the evolution of Nigeria’s digital identity.

Chairman of the .ng Awards Committee, Mr. Peter Oluka, said the celebration was an opportunity to honour pioneers, applaud today’s industry leaders, and recommit to strengthening the .ng brand over the next two decades.

In his remarks, NiRA President, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, described the .ng domain as Nigeria’s “digital anchor.” He noted that early visionaries laid the foundation for what has become a symbol of national identity, trust, and economic opportunity. He urged Nigerians, businesses, and institutions to adopt the .ng domain as their authentic online presence.

A tribute session led by NiRA’s Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Oluwaseyi Onasanya, highlighted the sacrifices and collaborations that shaped the repatriation and governance of the .ng domain. She described the journey as a defining moment in Nigeria’s digital evolution.

A key highlight of the night was the unveiling of the 20th Anniversary Logo and the hardcover NiRA History Documentary. The documentary features accounts from more than 30 stakeholders on NiRA’s formation, challenges, and milestones.

At the awards, Pulse Nigeria emerged Best Online Media Website, while Cool FM won Best Electronic Media Website (Radio). The Corporate Affairs Commission and Lagos State were honoured for digital innovation. Hervest was named Startup of the Year, and Nibox Financial Payment Solutions won Fintech Company of the Year.

NiRA also presented Lifetime Achievement Awards to Dr. Ibukun Odusote, Chief Chima Onyekwere, Dr. Isaac Odeyemi, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and the late Engr. Ndukwe Kalu.

Presidential Awards were presented to Go54, the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, Hon. Stanley Olajide, Nigeria Computer Society, Techeconomy, QServers, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Gavel and others. The highest honour, .ng Company of the Year, went to Afrigo Pay Financial.

NiRA said the anniversary was not just a celebration but a call for deeper adoption of the .ng domain to strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity, protect local content, and support future innovation.