The director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi has urged increased collaboration between the public and private sectors to combat cybercrime in Nigeria.
He emphasised that investing in cybersecurity professionals and measures is crucial to safeguarding organisations and processes, far outweighing the costs of cyber-attacks.
Speaking as a guest at the National Cybercrimes Summit 2024, organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abdullahi delivered a presentation titled “Alternative to Cybercrime.” The summit, themed “Alternatives to Cybercrime: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development,” gathered industry leaders, security agencies and traditional and religious leaders to share strategies for enhancing digital skills to tackle cybercrime.
Abdullahi highlighted the urgent need to address cybercrime in Nigeria, noting that cyber-attacks are no longer limited to desktops but have extended to mobile devices, smart TVs, cars and other interconnected technologies.
“Cybercrime is a global issue, but Nigeria, with its rich culture, talent and potential, is grappling with this menace. Today, we will explore alternatives to cybercrime,” he said.
The NITDA boss outlined five major categories of cybercrime: technical product/service attacks, extortion, data theft, scams and money laundering. He noted that Africa’s financial sector remains the most vulnerable, with over 3,300 cyber-attacks reported weekly.
Abdullahi explained that underlying factors driving cybercrime include unemployment, financial incentives and a lack of awareness of the legal and moral implications of cybercriminal activity. He advocated for a more holistic approach to combating cybercrime—not just through law enforcement but also by offering viable alternatives for those tempted by illegal activities.
“We must provide alternatives to cybercrime, focusing on digital literacy, skills development, and job creation to steer young Nigerians away from cyber criminality,” he urged.
Abdullahi emphasised the potential of Nigeria’s digital economy to create millions of jobs, contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP. He reiterated that it is crucial to invest in cybersecurity infrastructure and training to build a digitally secure environment.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the EFCC Rapid Response Centre by the president’s wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The centre serves as a 24/7 response desk for reporting cybercrime incidents.
Other dignitaries in attendance included the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Katsina State governor, Dikko Umar Radda and Zamfara State governor, Dauda Lawal. Traditional rulers and religious leaders such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe and the president of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Dr. Daniel Okoh were also present.
The summit concluded with calls for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework, create opportunities for youth and ensure digital security for the nation.
