The 17th West African Internet Governance Forum (WAIGF) opens in Abuja with renewed calls for regional cooperation to strengthen digital safety and inclusion across West Africa.

Held under the theme “Building a Resilient, Inclusive and Safe Digital Future for West Africa,” the high-level forum draws policymakers, regulators, lawmakers, and technology stakeholders from across the sub-region to confront emerging challenges in internet governance.

Dr ’Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, delivers the keynote at the opening of the forum, which seeks to harmonise national and cross-border digital priorities to drive resilient digital growth in the region.

In a goodwill message, Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), underscores the risks posed by the rapid evolution of the internet to data privacy and security.

Represented by Mr Ibitayo Olufemi, Head of Finance at NDPC, Dr Olatunji says, “The internet has brought with it challenges related to data security,” urging participants to “prioritise data protection and privacy, with a view to foster a culture of digital responsibility across their respective sectors.”

The opening session sees the attendance of Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, Chairman, Senate Committee on Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Cybersecurity; and Hon. Adedeji Stanley Oladeji, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity.

Also present are leaders of key national ICT institutions including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Galaxy Backbone Limited, and Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT).

Parliamentarians and government officials from Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Niger, Senegal and other West African nations are also participating in the forum, signalling a shared commitment to deepening regional dialogue on digital governance.

The WAIGF, according to organisers, continues to serve as a critical platform for shaping inclusive digital policies, strengthening cybersecurity cooperation, and building capacity for digital transformation across West Africa.