Computer Professionals (Registration Council of Nigeria), also known as CPN has begun a nationwide crackdown on quackery and unlicensed practices in a bid to strengthen professional standards in the country’s information technology sector.
CPN has also vowed tougher action against cybercrime in the country.
These were the major decisions taken at its 2026 Information Technology Professionals’ Assembly and Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday
Essien Eyo, president and chairman of Council of CPN, speaking at a virtual press conference, said the council would continue to enforce strict compliance with professional regulations to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s computing ecosystem.
He warned that the council would not tolerate unlicensed practice in the sector, stressing that regulatory enforcement would be strengthened in line with its statutory mandate.
“The Act makes it mandatory for all persons and organisations seeking to engage in computing and professional services to be registered and licensed by the council.
“It is illegal to engage in computing and professional practice without satisfying the requirement of registration and possession of a valid licence,” Eyo said.
He added that the council was determined to rid the sector of quackery and ensure that only qualified professionals are allowed to operate.
“CPN is committed to ensuring high professional ethics and standards, and we will continue to intensify efforts to eliminate quackery, arbitrary practice and lack of standards in the IT sector,” he stated.
Eyo disclosed that the 2026 IT Professionals’ Assembly, scheduled for May 13 and 14 at the NAF Conference Centre, Kado, Abuja, would serve as a key platform to advance regulatory compliance, professional development and industry collaboration.
The event, now in its 20th edition, has the theme, “Digital Resilience and Inclusion for Smart Economy,” and aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital economy and Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that the theme reflects the urgent need to build a secure, inclusive and resilient digital ecosystem capable of withstanding modern technological disruptions.
“In an era defined by rapid technological change, cybersecurity threats, economic disruptions and evolving digital demands, resilience ensures that digital infrastructure and institutions can withstand shocks and sustain growth,” Eyo said.
“At the same time, inclusion guarantees that no segment of society is left behind in accessing digital opportunities.”
He said the assembly would also focus on emerging digital risks, ethical technology deployment, inclusive policy frameworks and strengthening collaboration among government, industry, academia and civil society.
Eyo further noted that the event would feature the induction of new members into the computing profession and would be delivered in a hybrid format to ensure wider participation.
“The 2026 IT Professionals’ Assembly is not just an event but a strategic platform for shaping Nigeria’s digital destiny,” he said.
He confirmed that the keynote address would be delivered by Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
Also speaking, Aliu Abdullahi, vice president of Council, said the establishment of CPN was a Federal Government response to the need for proper regulation of Nigeria’s growing IT sector.
He said the council’s mandate includes setting professional standards, accrediting academic programmes, conducting examinations, regulating practice, enforcing ethics and maintaining the national register of computing professionals.
Abdullahi reiterated that all individuals and organisations engaged in IT training, computing services and related activities must be duly registered and licensed by the council.
He urged media organisations to support public awareness of the council’s activities, especially the forthcoming assembly, which he described as critical to strengthening Nigeria’s digital governance and professional integrity.
