UK Supports Nigeria’s Push to Tackle Cybersecurity Challenges

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria in addressing its cybersecurity challenges. This comes as key stakeholders from the government and private sector gathered in Abuja and Lagos for the Nigeria Cybersecurity Stakeholder Roundtable, organized with the backing of the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT).

A Unified Approach to Cybersecurity

The event highlighted the growing importance of collaboration in combating the rise of cyber threats. Speaking at the roundtable, Mark Smithson, Country Director for the UK’s DBT in Nigeria, said:

“As a global leader in cybersecurity innovation, the UK is uniquely positioned to partner with Nigeria to raise awareness and address emerging threats affecting our nations.”

This sentiment was echoed by Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), who emphasized the need for coordinated action:

“Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Together, we must take proactive steps to safeguard our digital sovereignty, protect critical information assets, and build a resilient, secure future for all.”

Escalating Cyber Threats

The increasing sophistication of cyber threats was a recurring concern. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, CEO of Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc, pointed out:

“Nigerian businesses face a rising volume of cyberattacks, particularly in financial services. Addressing these threats requires a culture of continuous education, cross-industry partnerships, and collective commitment to protecting our digital future.”

He praised the collaboration between the UK’s DBT, the Office of the National Security Adviser, NITDA, and other stakeholders for facilitating the roundtable outside Cybersecurity Awareness Month, creating a unique platform for in-depth discussions.

The Economic Risk of Cyber Threats

In Lagos, Jude Chiemeka, CEO of Nigerian Exchange Limited, stressed the need for robust cybersecurity frameworks to unlock economic growth and rebuild investor confidence. He highlighted the alarming ₦14.65 billion ($33 million) loss to electronic fraud in Nigeria’s banks in 2021, a 187% increase from the previous year.

“Cybersecurity threats pose a serious economic risk that could derail Nigeria’s ambition of becoming Africa’s digital powerhouse,” Chiemeka said.

A Platform for Continuous Collaboration

The roundtable underscored the importance of collaboration and information sharing across sectors to enhance Nigeria’s cybersecurity resilience. Experts discussed practical solutions to emerging digital security issues and laid the groundwork for ongoing partnerships to improve cybersecurity practices.

By fostering a unified approach, the event aimed to strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, ensuring a safer and more secure future for businesses and citizens alike.