In a recent press statement, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, the Federal Government has signalled its intention to work collaboratively with the private sector and key stakeholders towards the establishment of a Cybersecurity Coordination Council. This initiative is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s collective cyber resilience and enhancing coordinated responses to evolving cyber threats across both the public and private sectors.
The Minister’s position underscores a broader policy direction centred on partnership and shared responsibility. “Cybersecurity is a shared national responsibility. Protecting Nigeria’s digital economy requires strong partnerships, trusted collaboration, and collective vigilance across government, industry, and civil society. Through collaborative action and sustained engagement, we are strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to detect threats early, respond effectively, and build a resilient and trusted digital ecosystem.” He further encouraged cross-sector participation, noting that stakeholders must help shape “a sustainable, partnership-led cybersecurity model capable of deterring cybercriminal activity and protecting citizens, businesses, and national digital infrastructure.”
In parallel, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission has confirmed that it is carrying out an ongoing investigation across the data protection ecosystem in line with its statutory mandate.
The statement signed by Babatunde Bamigboye, Esq. Head, Legal, Enforcement & Regulations, NDPC read: “The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is carrying out an investigation into an alleged data breach involving Remita Payment Services Ltd., Sterling Bank and other entities. In line with the Commission’s procedure, Notice of Investigation was duly served on the 1st of April, 2026. Relevant parties and individuals have been providing information for the purpose of addressing the incident.”
“The aim of the investigation is to ensure that data subjects are protected with appropriate technical and organisational measures. The investigation by NDPC covers, among others, the types of personal data involved, the nature and scope of the alleged breach, the risk to data subjects and the mitigation measures carried out where a breach is confirmed.”
“The Commission’s National Commissioner/CEO, Dr Vincent Olatunji, has directed that organisations that employ digital payment systems without putting in place appropriate technical and organisational measures as mandated under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act), will also be examined as part of a wider effort to ensure the integrity of the ecosystem.”
