Telecommunications pivotal to advancement of economic system – CJN

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has noted that the deployment of technology in telecommunications plays a pivotal role in the advancement and enhancement of the economic system of any country and invariably stands as a driving force towards globalization.

Kekere-Ekun spoke at the opening ceremony of the 2024 National Workshop for Justices and Judges on legal issues in telecommunications organised by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute, NJC, in Abuja and Lagos on Tuesday.

She noted that engagement such as the above mentioned, has contributed to the expansion of the knowledge base of Judicial Officers with regards to emerging issues in the telecommunications sector over the years.

“Doubtless, this positive impact is evident in the enhancement of the skills and capacity of judicial officers who have participated in previous editions of the Workshop,” the CJN noted.

The CJN said she believes the theme of this year’s workshop, ‘The role of the judiciary in accelerating digital transformation in Nigeria’, could not have come at a better time.

She noted that the increased risk of the personal data of consumers being misused or compromised by unscrupulous persons, thus necessitating the need for improved strategies and innovation for consumer protection in the telecommunications sector.

The CJN also observed that deficiencies in the banking sector are attributable to reliance on digital services provided by the telecommunications sector.

According to her, the two issues revolve around cyber security and the attendant challenges of exploring the digital space.

The CJN also also noted the major challenge posed by electronically backed transactions which is common place in the banking sector.

“Concerns in this regard include the spate of customers whose online banking platforms have been hacked, as well as banks being compromised due to technological glitches not factored into their day to day operations.

“Consequently, these and several other challenges have resulted in a number of disputes which frequently require adjudication.

“Ultimately, I am hopeful that this workshop will avail participants the opportunity to deliberate on current challenges confronting the telecommunications sector and to cross-fertilize ideas on the viable options and strategies to address these issues.

“It is also my expectation that the forum will equip judicial officers with the technical skills required for adjudicating disputes arising from the Sector and keep them abreast with global standards and best practices.

“Additionally, given the far-reaching impact of technology on every sector and the urgency of embracing and adopting technological innovations in our various endeavors, I am confident that this engagement will offer insights into the immense benefits of digital transformation to both the judiciary and indeed the telecommunications sector.

“I also believe the specific role of the Judiciary in expediting the said transformation will be spotlighted communicated in a concise manner. ”

The CJN commended the NCC for its assiduous efforts at protecting consumers from unfair practices by service providers while assuring that the Nigerian Judiciary is committed to the development of the telecommunications sector and will continue to ensure coherence in the interpretation of the relevant laws as well as transparency and efficiency in the dispensation of justice.