The Federal Government has reported significant progress in its initiatives aimed at reducing cybercrime and curbing unethical behaviour in the digital space.
Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), made this known on Monday in Abuja during a news conference ahead of the upcoming National Cybersecurity Conference.
He stated that the conference is expected to build on current achievements in sanitising Nigeria’s digital environment.
According to Inuwa, the event will be hosted by NITDA in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), QNA—a Dubai-based event organiser—and other collaborators.
Scheduled to take place from 7 to 10 July, the conference will centre on the theme: “Building a Resilient Digital Future.”
Inuwa emphasised the urgent need for robust cybersecurity strategies in response to the fast-evolving digital landscape.
“The digital age has brought incredible opportunities for innovation and economic growth. However, it has also created serious cybersecurity challenges.
By 2025, global cybercrime damages are projected to reach 10.5 trillion dollars annually, a sharp increase from three trillion dollars in 2015.
In Nigeria, the emergence of sophisticated cyber-attacks, often powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlights the urgent need for robust preventive measures.
Focusing on equipping the nation’s youth with skills in technology and digital innovation can harness their talents for positive contributions,” he said.
He urged young Nigerians to take advantage of government-backed opportunities and contribute positively to cyberspace.
The conference will also feature Cybersecurity Excellence Awards to recognise both individuals and institutions making notable efforts to safeguard the nation’s digital infrastructure.
Mr Saad Abubakar, National Cybersecurity Coordinator at ONSA, stressed the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in tackling cyber threats.
“You will realise that our children and elders are not protected online; 50 per cent goes on cyberbullying, cyber sextortion and the rest.
If we can provide these online services, we should also channel the energy into securing our cyberspace,” he said.
Earlier, Mr Mohammed Lawal, Director of the Cybersecurity Department at NITDA, highlighted the need for stronger digital infrastructure to support Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
(NAN)