‘Beyond Technology’: NITDA cautions Nigerians against AI threat at GITEX Africa

*Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, warns Nigerians against the changing nature of ‘digital warfare’, stressing the country’s survival in the digital age depends on a blend of policy, people, and proactive defence

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has said the era of treating cybersecurity as a mere Information Technology (IT) problem is over.

The agency emphasised that AI-powered digital threats become more elusive and destructive, just as Nigeria is shifting its strategy towards “Total Resilience”—a multi-dimensional defence involving every level of society.

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Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of NITDA, who issued the warning while speaking at the 2026 GITEX Africa Summit, sounded the alarm on the changing nature of digital warfare. asserting that technology alone is no longer enough.

Instead, Nigeria’s survival in the digital age now hinges on a strategic blend of policy, people, and proactive defence.

Inuwa: Cybersecurity no longer just a technical issue

Inuwa, speaking at a panel session on Cyber Resilience, also described the current global digital environment as being at a “critical turning point”.

The Director-General also cautioned consumers that emerging technologies are not only transforming industries and economies, but are also reshaping the nature of cyberthreats.

According to him, they require a proactive and multi-dimensional response from governments, institutions, and citizens alike.

Inuwa further asserted: “Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical issue. It is a strategic imperative for national development.

“We must think beyond technology alone and build resilience through people, processes, regulations, and infrastructure.”

He equally disclosed that the focus of Nigeria’s cyber strategy is shifting from high-tech software to the people behind the screens.

Referencing data indicating that 95 percent of all digital breaches stem from simple human mistakes, Inuwa contended that even the world’s most advanced encryption is useless, if the consumer is compromised.

He explained: “The most sophisticated technology cannot protect us if the human element is overlooked.”

The NITDA Chief Executive said by prioritising human capacity and digital literacy, the agency aims to turn every citizen into a “human firewall”, the first and most critical line of defence in a world where AI-driven attacks are the “new normal”.

On National Digital Literacy Programme

Meanwhile, in response to issues of vulnerabilities in cyberspace, the Nigerian Government has launched a comprehensive National Digital Literacy Programme aimed at achieving 95 percent digital literacy by 2030, with an interim target of 70 percent by 2027.

The programme emphasises digital safety and cybersecurity awareness, equipping citizens with the knowledge to navigate an increasingly online world responsibly.

Inuwa highlighted other digital literacy initiatives, such as the “3 Million Tech Talent” programme.

The programme is designed to develop Nigerian expertise across key technology domains, including cybersecurity, data science, and AI.

It also leverages hackathons, innovation challenges, and mentorship schemes to channel young people’s skills into productive, lawful, and globally competitive ventures.

Inuwa emphasised that nurturing local talent is essential, not only for national security but also for economic growth.

He stated: “We want to create an environment where young Nigerians are innovators, not just consumers of technology.”

How Nigeria ranks in global cybercrime indices

Addressing concerns about Nigeria’s ranking in global cybercrime indices, Inuwa urged contextual understanding.

He said: “Countries with the most advanced digital economies also rank high in cybercrime because of the scale of their online activity.

“Our focus is on redirecting talent towards innovation and solutions that protect our citizens while contributing to global digital advancement.”

Impact of Cybercrime Act of 2015 on digital space

As regards the legal and regulatory front, Nigeria has continued to review and enhance the Cybercrime Act of 2015 to keep pace with the rapidly evolving threat landscape.

NITDA stressed the law underpins a structured National Cybersecurity Architecture, coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

Besides, the country operates a 24-hour cybersecurity operations centre tasked with monitoring threats, issuing advisories, and providing real-time support to government institutions, businesses, and citizens.

It is also noted that advanced technologies, including dark web monitoring and AI-enabled threat detection, are being deployed to enhance situational awareness and improve response times.

Inuwa emphasised that effective cyber resilience requires collaboration between public and private sectors.

NITDA as well affirmed it is working closely with government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as rhe private sector stakeholders to secure critical infrastructure and strengthen national resilience.

Inuwa averred: “Cyber resilience is not a solo effort; it is a collective responsibility.

“By integrating people, technology, and regulation, we can build a secure, globally competitive digital economy.”

As Nigeria navigates a digital-first future, initiatives, including the National Digital Literacy Programme, 3 Million Tech Talent (3MTT), and strengthened legal frameworks underscore a commitment to turning cybersecurity challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth.

According to the agency, Nigeria’s strategy reflects a broader understanding that in an era of AI-driven threats, preparedness is as much about people and processes as it is about technology.

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