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), organized by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the NSA’s office.
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.
“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 said.
The NSA outlined several measures underway, including the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre for real-time response to cyber threats.
He also cited the Executive Order on the Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) and the ongoing review of the Cybercrime Act.
“Additionally, updates to the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy are being made to address AI and other emerging technologies.”
He added that improved coordination with telecom operators and security agencies was underway to protect critical telecom infrastructure.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, highlighted the vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s rapidly growing fintech sector.
He listed banking malware, cryptocurrency scams, fake fintech apps, and social engineering as major threats.
Olukoyede said 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 will aim to redirect the skills of cybercriminals, commonly known as “Yahoo Yahoo” boys, towards productive use.
“Let us not wait for the next major cyber attack. Resilience is the future.
“The EFCC will continue to monitor, investigate, and prosecute digital financial crimes,” he warned.
Director-General of NITDA, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, said the conference aimed to foster collaboration among government agencies, private sector actors, academia, and global partners.
“It will enhance the protection of critical infrastructure through the development and implementation of robust cybersecurity policies, regulatory frameworks, and compliance mechanisms.
“It will also facilitate global partnerships to combat cyber threats and improve cross-border intelligence sharing.
“The conference will promote cybersecurity education and skills development through competitions, hands-on training, and technical sessions,” he said.
According to him, it will further encourage investment in cybersecurity technologies by showcasing innovative solutions and industry best practices from both local and international players through exhibitions, among other objectives.
Sen. Shuaibu Salisu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, urged NITDA to orient digitally inclined lawmakers on relevant legislation.
He said insights from the conference would help update Nigeria’s Cybercrime Law. (NAN)
