Abuja: The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the United Kingdom are joining forces on the UK/Nigeria Inward CyberTrade Mission to develop a National Cybersecurity Architecture. Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of NITDA, highlighted the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to economic reforms driven by digitisation during a meeting with UK delegates in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Inuwa emphasized the importance of their Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0, which aims to improve the country’s digitisation by fostering a digitally literate population aware of cybersecurity issues. The Federal Government is focused on integrating cybersecurity into all sectors, with 95 percent of cyber breaches attributed to human errors. Inuwa stated that educating both users and operators on cybersecurity is crucial, aiming for a 95 percent digital literacy level.
The agency is also researching emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, Robotics, and additive manufacturing. As these technologies evolve, Inuwa stressed the need for cybersecurity to adapt accordingly. He noted that while AI previously posed no threat, current developments require explainability to prevent misuse. Cybersecurity is a global concern, and strategic partnerships are essential to achieve cyber diplomacy and build systems tailored to Nigeria’s cyber landscape.
Mr. Mark Smithson, Country Director, Department of Business and Trade (DBT), UK, expressed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in addressing cybersecurity challenges. The bilateral relationship, valued at 7.5 billion pounds, aims to strengthen through the creation of safe cyber spaces. The UK offers expertise in cyber resilience, threat intelligence, and innovation, providing valuable opportunities for collaboration.
Dr. Lawan Mohammed, Director of Cybersecurity, emphasized the need for expertise collaboration to establish a robust cybersecurity infrastructure and effectively implement cybersecurity frameworks. He highlighted the necessity of building the capacity of cybersecurity experts, currently around 8,300, to address cyber threats nationwide. Additional expertise is required to develop threat intelligence, identify vulnerabilities, and preserve Public Key Infrastructure.
Mr. Ross Gill, another delegate member, acknowledged the increasing global threats and the importance of partnerships and sharing best practices to enhance defenses.