Nigeria is set to enhance its cybersecurity framework through a strategic collaboration with the United Kingdom, with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) spearheading the UK/Nigeria Inward Cyber Trade Mission. The initiative aims to fortify Nigeria’s digital security, tackle cyber threats, and drive innovation in the country’s growing digital economy.
During discussions with UK delegates in Abuja, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s dedication to leveraging digitization for economic growth. He highlighted that cybersecurity is central to this transformation, as outlined in NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0. A key priority is achieving a 95% digital literacy rate, ensuring citizens and businesses are equipped to navigate cybersecurity challenges.
With human error accounting for the majority of cyber breaches, Inuwa stressed the urgency of cybersecurity awareness and education. He emphasized the need for skilled professionals to safeguard Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, adding that training programs are being developed to address gaps in expertise. As emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) continue to evolve, he noted that cybersecurity measures must also advance to mitigate new risks.
Collaboration with international partners plays a vital role in Nigeria’s cybersecurity strategy. Inuwa underscored the importance of working with global stakeholders to create security solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique cyber landscape. He also pointed out that AI, once seen as a neutral tool, now demands stricter oversight to prevent its misuse.
Mark Smithson, Country Director at the UK’s Department of Business and Trade (DBT), emphasized the strong economic ties between Nigeria and the UK, valued at £7.5 billion. He reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in combating cyber threats and harnessing the opportunities of the digital era. With its expertise in cyber resilience and threat intelligence, the UK aims to provide Nigeria with cutting-edge technology and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen its cybersecurity ecosystem.
Experts at the meeting, including NITDA’s Director of Cybersecurity, Dr. Lawan Mohammed, and cybersecurity specialist Ross Gill, identified critical areas for intervention. Nigeria currently has approximately 8,300 cybersecurity professionals, a number deemed insufficient to combat the country’s rising cyber risks. The need to build capacity, enhance threat intelligence, and establish a resilient National Cybersecurity Architecture was highlighted as a national priority.
Given the increasing cyber threats worldwide, the discussions concluded with a strong call for deeper partnerships and knowledge-sharing. Strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure, fostering innovation, and ensuring a secure digital future for Nigeria remain at the heart of this collaborative effort.
