Nigeria strengthens internet security as NIRA deploys DNSSEC for country code domain

Nigeria has taken a significant step in strengthening its national digital infrastructure following the successful deployment of Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) for the country’s top-level domain.

According to the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA), the initiative marks the culmination of over a decade of preparatory work focused on improving the security, stability, and trustworthiness of Nigeria’s internet ecosystem.

With the implementation of DNSSEC, the .ng domain is now cryptographically protected, ensuring that users connecting to Nigerian websites are less exposed to cyber risks such as phishing, traffic interception, and redirection to fraudulent platforms.

DNSSEC works by adding a layer of digital verification to the Domain Name System (DNS), which translates human-readable website addresses into machine-readable IP addresses. The added security ensures that responses received during internet browsing are authentic and have not been altered or tampered with during transmission.

Officials explained that the system helps users confirm that the website they are accessing is the genuine destination, improving trust in Nigeria’s online services and reducing opportunities for cybercriminal activity.

By introducing cryptographic signing to DNS records, the upgrade reinforces Nigeria’s digital identity and aligns the country with global best practices in internet governance and cybersecurity.

NIRA noted that the development represents a milestone in protecting users, strengthening national digital infrastructure, and enhancing confidence in the .ng domain space for businesses, government institutions, and individuals.