The Federal Government has restated its determination to secure Nigeria’s cyberspace, as part of efforts to bolster the nation’s digital resilience against growing cyber threats.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Federal Government has restated its determination to secure Nigeria’s cyberspace, as part of efforts to bolster the nation’s digital resilience against growing cyber threats.
National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, gave the assurance on Wednesday at the maiden edition of the National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC), held in Abuja.
The two-day conference, organised by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the Office of the NSA, had as its theme: “Building a Resilient Digital Future” and drew participants from 175 organisations, including embassies, ministries, departments, agencies, academic institutions, and tech firms.
Describing the event as a watershed in Nigeria’s digital security trajectory, Ribadu said:
“Building a resilient digital future is not just a theme; it’s a call to action.
Nigeria’s accelerating digital transformation brings economic opportunity but also increased vulnerability.
Resilience is no longer optional; it is the bedrock of national security and economic stability.”
He disclosed that the government had taken a number of steps to strengthen cybersecurity, including the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre, which will provide real-time response to cyber threats.
The NSA also mentioned the Executive Order on the Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) and the ongoing review of the Cybercrime Act as part of the administration’s proactive measures.
“Additionally, updates to the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy are being made to address AI and other emerging technologies,” he added.
He noted that improved collaboration with telecom operators and security agencies was also underway to better safeguard the country’s critical telecom infrastructure.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, drew attention to the vulnerabilities facing Nigeria’s fast-growing fintech ecosystem.
He identified threats such as banking malware, cryptocurrency scams, fake fintech applications, and social engineering tactics.
“The EFCC is leveraging digital forensics and intelligence collaboration to combat cybercrime,” Olukoyede said.