NiRA seeks to lower .ng domain costs for Nigerian SMEs

The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) is developing initiatives to increase the affordability and accessibility of .ng domain names, specifically targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). NiRA President Adesola Akinsanya stated that the goal is to encourage Nigerian businesses to establish digital identities using the national domain.

Proposed measures include discounted bundle packages through NiRA-accredited registrars, which could combine .com.ng domains with web hosting, one-page websites, and other essential business tools. Additionally, NiRA is considering the introduction of SME domain vouchers. Under this model, NiRA would provide wholesale subsidies to reduce costs while participating registrars handle registration services.

To implement these programs, NiRA is looking toward partnerships with organizations such as the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), the Bank of Industry, state-level SME agencies, and various chambers of commerce. The association is also addressing domain squatting through a structured dispute resolution process to protect legitimate businesses.