Nigeria highlights proactive measures to secure cyberspace, boost resilience

*Malam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser outlines several measures, including the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre for real-time response to cyberthreats, stating ‘resilience is the bedrock of national security and economic stability’

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

As Nigeria accelerates digital transformation to herald economic opportunities for the citizenry, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the country’s cyberspace by strengthening cybersecurity resilience against emerging digital threats.

ConsumerConnect reports Malam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser (NSA), stated this Wednesday, July 8, 2025, at the maiden National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC), held in Abuja, FCT.

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) organised the event in collaboration with the NSA’s office.

The two-day conference with the theme, “Building a Resilient Digital Future”, drew participants from 175 organisations, including embassies, ministries, agencies, universities, and technology firms.

Ribadu: Establishment of National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre underway

Speaking at the conference, Malam Ribadu described the event as a defining moment in Nigeria’s digital security journey.

The NSA also stated: “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.”

Ribadu said outlined several measures underway, including the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre for real-time response to cyberthreats in Nigeria’s digital space.

He equally cited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Executive Order (EO) on the protection of the country’s Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), and the ongoing review of the Cybercrime Act.

He noted: “Additionally, updates to the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy are being made to address AI (Artificial Intelligence) and other emerging technologies.”

According tomhim, improved coordination with telecoms operators and security agencies is well underway to protect critical communication infrastructure.

Resilience is the future, says EFCC Chair

In his address at the forum, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), also highlighted the vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s rapidly growing Financial Technology (FinTech) sector of the Nigerian economy.

Olukoyede listed banking malware, cryptocurrency scams, fake FinTech apps, and social engineering, among others as major threats.

The Executive Chairman of EFCC disclosed the anti-graft regulatory agency is leveraging digital forensics and intelligence collaboration to fight cybercrime.

He also announced the Commission’s plans to establish a Cybersecurity Research Centre by 2026.

He further averred: “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 cyberattack. Resilience is the future.”

“The EFCC will continue to monitor, investigate, and prosecute digital financial crimes.”

Inuwa: Global partnerships crucial to combat cyberthreats, improve intelligence sharing

Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of NITDA, said the conference aimed to foster collaboration among government agencies, private sector actors, academia, and global partners.

Inuwa stated: “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 cyberthreats and improve cross-border intelligence sharing.

“The conference will promote cybersecurity education and skills development through competitions, hands-on training, and technical sessions.”

The Director-General of NITDA emphasised the conference would further encourage investment in cybersecurity technologies by showcasing innovative solutions and industry best practices from both local and international players through exhibitions.

Sen. Shuaibu Salisu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, also urged NITDA to orient digitally inclined lawmakers on relevant legislation.

Insights from the conference would help to update Nigeria’s Cybercrime Law, Salisu submitted.

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