…Calls for collective action to secure Nigeria’s cyberspace

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has raised concerns over the rising wave of cybercrime in Nigeria, warning that increasing exploitation of vulnerable cyberspace, individuals, businesses, and government institutions is being recorded.

Speaking at the Cybersecurity Awareness Campaign organized by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) on Wednesday, Egbetokun, represented by DIG Bala Ciroma, DIG in charge of Administration, highlighted the significant threats posed by cybercriminal activity, which can disrupt critical infrastructure and compromise sensitive information.

According to the IGP, “This gathering of cyber experts demonstrates our collective resolve to confront cybercrime, which has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges of our time. It highlights our shared commitment to working together towards a safer and more secure digital world.

“As we embrace the digital age, we must confront the harsh reality that cyber threats pose a significant danger to national security. Cybercriminals operate across borders, exploiting system vulnerabilities and targeting individuals, businesses, and government institutions. These threats can disrupt critical infrastructure, compromise sensitive information, and undermine the very fabric of our society.”

In his welcome remarks, CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, Director of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre, stressed that combating cybercrime is a shared responsibility. “In today’s interconnected world, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. While the digital age has brought remarkable advancements and opportunities, it has also introduced new threats that, if not addressed, could cripple systems, disrupt services, and compromise the safety and privacy of citizens.”

Henry emphasized that cybercrime impacts every sector, from finance to healthcare, and noted that the collaboration of all stakeholders—government, law enforcement, private sector partners, and individuals—is crucial to countering the growing threats.

He added, “The NPF-NCCC was established with the objective of serving as a specialized body dedicated to combating cybercrime and enhancing the nation’s cyber resilience. Over the years, we have collaborated with various agencies, both locally and internationally, to build a robust framework for cybercrime investigation, digital forensics, and capacity building. Today’s event is part of our continued effort to raise awareness and foster collaboration.”

Henry acknowledged the contributions of the cybersecurity experts present, stating, “Your expertise has been instrumental in shaping the cybersecurity landscape, and I am confident that the insights you share during this campaign will further strengthen our collective response to cyber threats.”

In his address titled ‘Secure Our World,’ UNODC Deputy Representative in Nigeria, Mr. Danilo Campisi, underscored the importance of cybersecurity as a fundamental element of human progress, justice, and security. He noted that the Nigeria Police Force, through its National Cybercrime Centre, plays a crucial role in safeguarding national and international cyber environments, calling it a significant responsibility that affects all aspects of modern life.

Campisi said, “Cybercriminals pose sophisticated, borderless, and often undetectable threats. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is committed to assisting Member States in developing innovative, integrated, and tailored solutions to combat and prevent internet-enabled crimes. This workshop exemplifies the teamwork needed to effectively tackle cyber threats.”

He added, “By sharing knowledge, building capacity, and strengthening legal frameworks, we are not only protecting data but also safeguarding lives, fostering trust, and ensuring that cybercrime does not hinder development in Nigeria and beyond. UNODC remains a dedicated ally of Nigeria in these efforts, supporting the Nigeria Police Force and other stakeholders in building a secure digital future.”

The event served as a call to action for all sectors to collaborate in addressing the evolving nature of cyber threats and to ensure Nigeria’s cyberspace remains resilient and secure for all citizens.