Abuja: The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s cyberspace by strengthening cybersecurity resilience against emerging digital threats. National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, made the pledge on Wednesday in Abuja at the maiden National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC), organised by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the NSA’s office.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the two-day conference themed, ‘Building a Resilient Digital Future,’ drew participation from 175 organisations, including embassies, ministries, agencies, universities, and tech firms. Ribadu described the event as a defining moment in Nigeria’s digital security journey, emphasizing that building a resilient digital future is crucial for national security and economic stability.
The NSA outlined several measures underway, including the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre for real-time response to cyber threats. He also mentioned the Executive Order on the Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) and the ongoing review of the Cybercrime Act. Updates to the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy are being made to address AI and other emerging technologies. Improved coordination with telecom operators and security agencies is also underway to protect critical telecom infrastructure.
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, highlighted the vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s rapidly growing fintech sector, identifying banking malware, cryptocurrency scams, fake fintech apps, and social engineering as major threats. Olukoyede stated that the EFCC was leveraging digital forensics and intelligence collaboration to fight cybercrime and announced plans to establish a Cybersecurity Research Centre by 2026. The centre aims to redirect the skills of cybercriminals towards productive use and ensure resilience against cyber attacks.
Director-General of NITDA, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, noted that the conference aimed to foster collaboration among government agencies, private sector actors, academia, and global partners. It seeks to enhance the protection of critical infrastructure through the development and implementation of robust cybersecurity policies and frameworks. The conference also promotes cybersecurity education, skills development, and encourages investment in cybersecurity technologies by showcasing innovative solutions.
Sen. Shuaibu Salisu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, urged NITDA to orient digitally inclined lawmakers on relevant legislation, stating that insights from the conference would help update Nigeria’s Cybercrime Law.