Mr. Abolaji Adebayo, while anticipating the risks inherent in the rollout of 6G and 7G networks based on his experience with 5G utilization, outlined the anticipated risks that could impact the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy. It was reported that those involved in the telecommunications sector are coming together to prevent this from happening.
Following the successful launch of fifth generation (5G) networks around the world, various countries are looking forward to the development of 6G and 7G technologies. 6G networks are expected to be developed and released by the late 2020s. The countries with the highest number of 6G patent applications are China and the United States, with both countries exceeding the number of patents filed by other countries.
Features
Recent academic publications have conceptualized 6G and the new features it may include. Artificial intelligence (AI) is included in many predictions, from 6G supporting AI infrastructure to “AI designing and optimizing 6G architectures, protocols, and operations.” Another study published in Nature Electronics aims to provide a framework for 6G research, stating that “human-centric mobile communications will remain the most important application of 6G, and 6G networks should be human-centric.” Therefore, advanced security, confidentiality, and privacy should be key features of 6G, and the wireless research community should pay particular attention.”
contagion; infection
The frequency band of 6G is undecided. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers states that “the frequencies from 100 GHz to 3 THz are a promising band for next-generation wireless communication systems because of the vast amount of unused and unexplored spectrum.” One of the challenges in supporting the required high-speed transmission is the energy consumption and associated thermal protection limitations in electronic circuits.
risk
Apart from the above, the introduction of 6G and other emerging technologies involves many risks. Telecommunications executives are concerned about these risks. Emerging technologies are expected to lead to more cyber-attacks on businesses. Apart from that, there is also the possibility of misinformation that can affect the socio-economic environment of the country. Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to an organization. In the telecommunications industry, risk management is essential to maintaining a secure and reliable network. From natural disasters to cyberattacks, there are many sources of risk in telecommunications. Telcos must have robust risk management processes in place to identify and mitigate these risks.
prevention
To protect telecommunications companies from risks, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has taken significant steps to reduce the exposure of the country’s $75 billion telecommunications industry to new risks. According to the commission, this is essential to strengthen the sector against new risks associated with changes and advances in the sector.
step
Speaking at the opening of the two-day Telecommunications Industry Risk Management Conference held in Lagos recently, NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, said the industry is currently at a crossroads of tradition and transformation, emerging technologies and trends. stated that it exists. Both unprecedented opportunities and challenges. The event, themed “The Evolution and Future of Risk Management in the Telecommunications Industry: Leveraging Emerging Technologies and Trends,” will bring together stakeholders in the sector to discuss the evolution of the Internet, increased access, and increased risk due to digital proliferation. Now you can prepare for the future. Speaking on behalf of NCC Executive Commissioner for Technical Services, Ubale Masuka, Maida said: “While we discuss the current state of 5G networks, which boast a wider attack surface due to the increasing number of connected devices and densification of network infrastructure, we look to the future.
“We are witnessing the dawn of 6G technology, the next frontier in wireless communications. 6G promises even higher speeds, lower latency, and breakthrough applications that will transform our connected experience. “However, this progress has the potential to revolutionize the way we do business.” It comes with the responsibility of opening up a new path.”
7G network
The NCC chief further emphasized the need to look beyond the present and begin to reflect on the opportunities and new challenges that come with 7G technology, which is also on the horizon. “Anticipating and managing the risks associated with 7G requires collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to seamlessly integrate this technology into our interconnected world.” The impact of emerging technologies such as quantum technologies (computing, sensing, and communications), advanced artificial intelligence, and blockchain (distributed ledger) technology must also be considered. , have the potential to positively transform our industry. But they also introduce complexities that require careful consideration in our risk management strategies,” he added.
Stakeholder opinion
Dr. Jacob Afolabi, former Director, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Commission (NDIC), in his lead presentation on the subject, highlighted the need to leverage emerging technology trends such as 5G, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence. Emphasizing (AI), blockchain technology, data analytics, sustainability and the development of appropriate skills will benefit the sector, not the other way around. For example, he said, telecom companies can’t afford not to take advantage of opportunities to streamline operations through blockchain technology and artificial intelligence. “Four examples include fraud detection, roaming and payments, 5G enablement, and IoT connectivity,” he said. We are demonstrating the potential of the chain”-backing operations.
“AI is transforming the telecommunications industry by providing unparalleled opportunities for growth, innovation, and efficiency, but the transformation is not without risks. Telcos are integrating AI into their business operations. As we continue to integrate, it becomes imperative to understand and manage new risks,” he said.
effort
Also, Head of Corporate Planning, Strategy and Risk Management (HCPSRM), Kelechi Nwankwo, said the NCC head, in consultation with industry and media executives, said the commission was considering a review of the regulations. He pointed out that he had repeatedly said that. Review current operational standards and introduce new standards in line with international best practices. “This is to promote resilience in the telecommunications industry. “Therefore, we gather here today with the theme ‘Evolution and future risk management of the telecommunications industry: Leveraging emerging technologies and trends,’ and we are rapidly evolving. Embark on a journey of exploration and discovery in the telecommunications industry landscape.
strategy
“Therefore, we must analyze, adapt and effectively manage the risks associated with innovation and development. In the rapidly disruptive world of the telecommunications industry, we have the potential to reshape our future. “From 5G networks, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI) to cloud computing, the possibilities are endless. But with great opportunity comes great risk. It is our collective responsibility to address these risks and, in some cases, protect the growth and sustainability of our industry. “This conference welcomes the opportunity to embrace the tremendous opportunities presented by emerging technologies and trends. However, it is a testament to our collective commitment to recognizing the evolving risks and challenges we face.
In a World Economic Forum (WEF) survey of world leaders on the five risks most likely to cause a major global crisis in 2024, AI-generated misinformation/disinformation was ranked number one. 2nd place, and cyberattacks came in 5th place. “These two are technical risks. The number one risk is extreme weather (environment), and the third and fourth places are social/political polarization and cost of living crisis, respectively, which are social issues. .
collaboration
“Together, we will engage in discussions, gain important insights from industry experts, share experiences, and develop strategies to navigate this ever-changing landscape. Reduce technology risk and how technological innovation can be used to provide solutions to address environmental, social, economic (disruption of supply chains for critical goods and resources), and geopolitical (attacks on critical infrastructure) challenges. “Let us challenge our perspectives and embrace forward thinking as we engage in fruitful deliberation, exchange of ideas, and collaboration over the coming days. The telecommunications industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation. , it is our responsibility to stay informed, prepared, and proactively manage future potential risks.
“We invite you to actively participate in the various sessions, engage in candid dialogue, and contribute to fruitful discussions. By leveraging the wisdom and experience gathered at this conference, we will shape the future of our industry. “We are excited to embark on this exciting journey to explore the evolution and future of risk management in the telecommunications industry, while leveraging the benefits from emerging technologies and trends.” Let’s start together.”
last line
In addition to cooperation among operators, governments also need to support proactive regulatory frameworks to reduce anticipated risks.
