The National Assembly has officially passed the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2025, marking a new era for Nigeria’s digital landscape. The law, enacted under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, strengthens the nation’s legal framework for combating cyber offenses and ensuring responsible online behavior.
With the passage of this Act, every provision within the legislation is now binding and enforceable across Nigeria. The law targets a wide range of cyber-related offenses, from data breaches to fake news and sets strict penalties for violators.
According to the Act, unauthorized access to another person’s device, email, or social media account without consent now carries a penalty of up to five years in prison. Similarly, anyone found guilty of tampering with another person’s digital data or interfering with stored information faces a potential five-year jail term.
The law also imposes stiffer penalties for more serious offenses. Disclosing classified or sensitive information without approval attracts a maximum of 15 years imprisonment, while inciting ethnic or religious hatred online could lead to life imprisonment.
In addition, the Act criminalizes recording private conversations without authorization, with offenders facing up to two years in prison. The same penalty applies to those found guilty of publishing false or misleading information or engaging in online harassment, bullying, or abuse.
A key highlight of the 2025 Cybercrimes Act is its accountability clause for digital community administrators. Group and page admins on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, and others may now be held responsible for illegal content shared by their members, especially if they fail to moderate or take necessary action when notified.
Legal experts have described the Act as a timely update to address emerging digital threats, protect personal data, and promote safer online engagement. However, they also caution that citizens must be properly educated about their rights and responsibilities under the new law to prevent misuse or wrongful prosecution.
As Nigeria deepens its digital economy, the Cybercrimes Act 2025 serves as both a protective framework and a warning:
In today’s connected world, every post, click, and share now carries legal weight.
