Nigeria Strengthens Cybersecurity Framework with New Initiatives

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the nation’s cybersecurity resilience to counter emerging digital threats. This pledge was made by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, during the inaugural National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC), hosted by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the NSA’s office.

The two-day event, themed “Building a Resilient Digital Future,” attracted 175 organizations, including embassies, ministries, government agencies, universities, and technology firms, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards digital security. Ribadu emphasized the urgency of the conference’s theme, stating that resilience is no longer optional but the bedrock of national security and economic stability.

Several key cybersecurity initiatives were outlined by the NSA to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework. These include the establishment of a National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre for real-time response to cyber threats, an Executive Order on Critical National Information Infrastructure to protect vital digital assets, a review of the Cybercrime Act to address evolving threats, revisions to the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy to incorporate artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, and enhanced coordination with telecom operators and security agencies to safeguard critical telecom infrastructure.

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, addressed the vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s booming fintech sector, identifying threats such as banking malware, cryptocurrency scams, fake fintech apps, and social engineering. He revealed that the EFCC is leveraging digital forensics and intelligence collaboration to combat cybercrime and announced plans to establish a Cybersecurity Research Centre by 2026. The centre aims to redirect the skills of cybercriminals towards productive use, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent future cyber attacks.

NITDA’s Director-General, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, underscored the conference’s goal of fostering collaboration among the government, private sector, academia, and global partners. Key objectives included strengthening the protection of critical infrastructure through robust cybersecurity policies, regulatory frameworks, and compliance mechanisms, facilitating global partnerships to combat cyber threats and enhance cross-border intelligence sharing, promoting cybersecurity education and skills development, and encouraging investment in cybersecurity technologies.

As part of the National Cyber Security Conference activities, the MDAs Hackathon showcased exceptional skills and innovation among top ministries, departments, and agencies. After a competitive online qualifying round, four teams advanced to the in-person challenge, demonstrating expertise in tackling complex hacking tasks. The winners included the Ekiti State ICT Department in first place, the Nigerian Customs Service in second place, and the Nigerian Defence College in third place.

Senator Shuaibu Salisu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, called on NITDA to educate digitally inclined lawmakers on relevant legislation. He noted that insights from the conference would inform updates to Nigeria’s Cybercrime Law, ensuring it remains relevant in addressing modern challenges.