Nigeria and the United Kingdom have joined forces to enhance the country’s cybersecurity capabilities, focusing on creating a robust National Cybersecurity Architecture. This collaboration is facilitated through the UK/Nigeria Inward Cyber Trade Mission, led by Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). At a recent meeting in Abuja, Kashifu Inuwa, NITDA’s Director-General, discussed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to driving economic reforms through digitization and emphasized the importance of cybersecurity as part of the nation’s digital future.
Inuwa highlighted NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0, aimed at promoting digital literacy and safeguarding Nigeria’s cyberspace. He explained that a major focus of the initiative is educating both users and operators on cybersecurity practices, given that human error causes around 95% of cyber breaches. In an effort to achieve digital literacy for 95% of the population, the government is also prioritizing the development of skilled cybersecurity professionals.
The collaboration between Nigeria and the UK will also address the evolving nature of cybersecurity challenges posed by emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and the Internet of Things. Inuwa stressed the need for new approaches to cybersecurity as these technologies rapidly develop. He pointed out that while AI was not previously seen as a threat, its misuse today demands greater security measures and transparency.
Mr. Mark Smithson, Country Director for the UK’s Department of Business and Trade, reiterated the strong bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the UK, valued at 7.5 billion pounds. He underscored the UK’s commitment to assisting Nigeria in securing its digital future by providing advanced technology and capacity-building initiatives. Both countries agreed that stronger partnerships and expert collaboration are essential to developing a resilient cybersecurity framework, especially given the current shortage of skilled professionals in the field.
SOURCE: THE SUN