News Highlights:
- UK-Nigeria Cybersecurity Collaboration
- Enhancing Cybersecurity and Digital Literacy
Plans are underway to establish a UK-Nigeria National Cybersecurity Architecture, with the UK/Nigeria Inward Cyber Trade Mission set to be facilitated by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
Digital TimesNG understands that at a meeting with UK delegates in Abuja on Monday, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to economic reforms and digital transformation.
He emphasized that digitization, backed by robust cybersecurity measures, would play a crucial role in achieving these reforms.
Inuwa noted that NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0 aims to enhance digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness across the country.
He pointed out that human errors account for 95% of cyber breaches, stressing the importance of educating both users and operators on cybersecurity best practices.
“We are working towards embedding cybersecurity into all aspects of national activities, with a target of achieving 95% digital literacy,” Inuwa said. “Building expertise is key, and we are actively training our people to safeguard our digital space.”
He further disclosed that NITDA is conducting research on emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, robotics, and additive manufacturing. As these technologies evolve, he stressed the need for cybersecurity measures to advance accordingly.
“The way we approach cybersecurity must evolve alongside technological advancements,” he added. “AI, which previously posed no significant threats, now requires explainability to prevent misuse.”
Addressing global cybersecurity concerns, Inuwa underscored the need for strategic partnerships, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in strengthening cyber resilience.
He noted that NITDA is working with foreign partners and local businesses to develop security systems tailored to Nigeria’s cyber landscape.
UK Country Director for the Department of Business and Trade (DBT), Mark Smithson, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in tackling cybersecurity challenges.
He stated that the economic relationship between both nations is valued at £7.5 billion and would continue to grow through strengthened cooperation in building safe cyber environments.
“The UK remains firmly dedicated to helping Nigeria address cybersecurity threats and harness opportunities in the digital age,” Smithson said. “By sharing expertise in cyber resilience, threat intelligence, and innovation, we aim to support Nigeria in creating a secure digital future.”
Other speakers, including Dr. Lawan Mohammed, NITDA’s Director of Cybersecurity, and UK cybersecurity expert Ross Gill, emphasized the need for collaboration to build a strong cybersecurity infrastructure.
They highlighted the shortage of cybersecurity professionals in Nigeria—currently about 8,300 experts—which is insufficient to address the country’s growing cyber threats.
Key areas requiring expertise intervention include developing threat intelligence, identifying vulnerabilities, preserving Public Key Infrastructure, and establishing a resilient National Cybersecurity Architecture.
Experts at the event also acknowledged the rise in global cyber threats, stressing that partnerships and knowledge-sharing would enhance national defenses.
