Key points
- ipNX says AI adoption is reshaping telecom infrastructure and expanding cyberattack risks.
- Experts warn that new digital platforms and APIs are creating more entry points for attackers.
- AI improves efficiency and automation but also increases system vulnerability.
- Telecom operators are urged to strengthen security systems and monitoring tools.
- Calls made for stronger regulation, skilled personnel and governance frameworks.
Main Story
The Director of Strategic Business Initiatives at ipNX, Olusola Teniola, has warned that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in telecommunications is increasing cybersecurity risks across the sector.
Teniola spoke on Thursday at the West Africa Telecoms Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition (WATISE) 4.0 in Lagos, themed “The Resilient AI Fabric: Trust, Integrity and Sustainability in Next Generation Network Infrastructure.” He said AI presents major opportunities for improving network efficiency, automation and service delivery but also introduces new security challenges that operators must urgently address.
According to him, the expansion of AI across telecom infrastructure is creating new vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals.
“As AI expands across telecom infrastructure, the threat landscape also evolves.”
He added: “Operators must ensure that security remains at the centre of every deployment.” Teniola explained that AI is now deeply embedded in telecom operations, expanding the attack surface and increasing exposure to cyber threats. He said traditional telecom systems were originally designed as controlled environments, but modern digital integration and APIs have widened access points for attackers.
He warned that cybercriminals are increasingly using advanced tools to target telecom infrastructure, making cybersecurity a strategic priority for the industry. “Technology continues to advance, but so do the methods used by attackers.”
“We must stay ahead through proactive security measures and constant vigilance.”
He urged telecom companies to invest in resilient security systems, continuous monitoring and skilled cybersecurity personnel. Teniola also stressed the importance of governance frameworks and data protection policies to support safe AI adoption. He identified cybersecurity threats, data privacy risks and system integrity issues as key challenges facing AI-enabled networks. He called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, regulators and policymakers to develop standards that support innovation while protecting digital infrastructure. He added that responsible AI adoption is essential for building resilient and reliable telecom systems.
The Issues
- Growing cybersecurity risks linked to AI integration in telecom networks.
- Expansion of attack surfaces through APIs and interconnected systems.
- Increasing sophistication of cyberattacks targeting digital infrastructure.
- Need for skilled cybersecurity professionals in the telecom sector.
- Gaps in governance, regulation and data protection frameworks.
What’s Being Said
- ipNX Director, Olusola Teniola, said: “As AI expands across telecom infrastructure, the threat landscape also evolves.”
- He added: “Operators must ensure that security remains at the centre of every deployment.”
- He said: “Technology continues to advance, but so do the methods used by attackers.”
- He also said: “We must stay ahead through proactive security measures and constant vigilance.”
What’s Next
- Increased investment in telecom cybersecurity systems and monitoring tools.
- Stronger regulatory frameworks for AI and digital infrastructure.
- Greater focus on training cybersecurity professionals.
- Expansion of collaboration between operators, regulators and policymakers.
- Broader adoption of secure-by-design AI deployment strategies.
Bottom Line
While AI is transforming telecom operations, industry leaders warn that without strong security systems and governance, it could significantly expand exposure to cyber threats across Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
