The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to fortifying the nation’s cyberspace by enhancing cybersecurity resilience to counter emerging digital threats.
This pledge was made by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, on Wednesday in Abuja 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 organisations, including embassies, ministries, government agencies, universities, and technology firms, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey.
Ribadu emphasised the urgency of the conference’s theme, stating, “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.”
Key cybersecurity initiatives outlined
The NSA highlighted several ongoing measures to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework:
- National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre: A new facility designed for real-time response to cyber threats.
- Executive Order on Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII): Aimed at protecting vital digital assets.
- Review of the Cybercrime Act: Updates to address evolving threats.
- National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy: Revisions to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.
- Enhanced coordination: Improved collaboration with telecom operators and security agencies to safeguard critical telecom infrastructure.
See also: NITDA warns Nigerians against malicious websites imitating Google Play Store
EFCC’s Focus on Fintech Vulnerabilities
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 will aim to redirect the skills of cybercriminals, commonly known as ‘Yahoo Yahoo’ boys, towards productive use,” Olukoyede said. He added, “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.”
NITDA’s vision for collaboration
NITDA’s Director-General, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, underscored the conference’s goal: to foster collaboration among the government, private sector, academia, and global partners.
He outlined key objectives:
- Strengthening 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 through competitions, hands-on training, and technical sessions.
- Encouraging investment in cybersecurity technologies by showcasing innovative solutions and industry best practices from local and international exhibitors.
Cybersecurity hackathon at NCSC 2025
As part of the National Cyber Security Conference activities, on Day 1, July 9, the MDAs Hackathon showcased exceptional skills and innovation among top ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
After a competitive online qualifying round, four teams advanced to the in-person challenge:
- Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST)
- Nigerian Customs Service
- Ekiti State ICT Department
- Nigerian Defence College
In a thrilling 5-hour cybersecurity challenge, these teams demonstrated expertise in tackling complex hacking tasks. The winners include:
3rd Place: Nigerian Defence College
1st Place: Ekiti State ICT Department
2nd Place: Nigerian Customs Service
Legislative Support
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.
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