The director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi has stressed the significance of cybersecurity awareness, particularly among young people, emphasising that growth is driven by innovation, but sustainability relies on security.
He noted that even the most cutting-edge platforms can crumble in an instant without robust security measures.
Abdullahi expressed the importance of equipping young minds with cybersecurity knowledge, stating, “We must include cybersecurity and digital literacy in our curricula. Young people should not only learn how to code but also how to protect themselves and their work online.”
Representing Abdullahi and serving in the cybersecurity department, Engr. Mohammed Kabiru conveyed this message during his keynote speech at the Nigeria Teen Cyber Festival 2023. The event, organised by the Child Cyber Protection Initiative in collaboration with NITDA and other stakeholders, aimed to foster a culture of cybersecurity, online safety, innovation and the exchange of ideas among young people.
Abdullahi highlighted that while individuals bear personal responsibility for their online security, tech giants and governments also play a crucial role in safeguarding the digital realm through proactive measures, partnerships, and collaborations.
“NITDA has been at the forefront of addressing cybercrime and online security, as evidenced by its role in the development of Cybercrime (prohibition, prevention, etc.) Act 2015. This Act establishes a unified and comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for preventing, detecting, prosecuting and punishing cybercrimes in Nigeria.
“The Act also ensures the protection of critical national information infrastructure, promotes cybersecurity and safeguards computer systems and networks, electronic communications, data, computer programmes, intellectual property and privacy rights.”
Abdullahi acknowledged that young people today are not merely consumers but leaders of the global digital revolution. They create applications, platforms, and solutions that impact millions, if not billions, of people worldwide. However, this immense power also comes with significant responsibility, as the same technologies that connect us across continents can be exploited for malicious purposes.
He cautioned against evolving cyber threats, ranging from deep fakes to identity theft, emphasising that every online action has the potential to expose personal vulnerabilities.
Nevertheless, Abdullahi emphasised that the digital economy can be both a playground and a fortress for young minds if the correct balance between innovation and security is maintained. He encouraged innovation while underscoring the importance of internet safety.
In conclusion, he said, “Let us foster innovation as we navigate the digital era, all the while prioritizing internet safety. Equip our youth with the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to lead us into a future where technology not only offers convenience but also trust, safety and collective progress”.
