NITDA Partners with UK on National Cybersecurity Architecture

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the United Kingdom are collaborating on the UK-Nigeria Inward Cyber Trade Mission to develop a National Cybersecurity Architecture.

Speaking at a meeting with UK delegates on Monday in Abuja, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of NITDA, emphasised that President Bola Tinubu is committed to economic reforms and digital transformation, with digitisation playing a key role.

Inuwa highlighted that NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0 aims to accelerate Nigeria’s digital development by ensuring a cybersecurity-aware and digitally literate population.

He stressed that the Federal Government is integrating cybersecurity into all sectors, noting that 95 per cent of cyber breaches result from human error.

“We must educate both users and operators on cybersecurity, which is part of our mandate. We aim to achieve 95 per cent digital literacy,” he said.

“We are focusing on building expertise and training people to safeguard our digital space.”

He added that NITDA is conducting research into emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, robotics, and additive manufacturing.

As these technologies evolve, cybersecurity must also advance.

“We need to rethink how we address cybersecurity and secure the systems we are developing,” he said.

He noted that while AI was not previously a security threat, today, it requires explainability to prevent misuse.

Global Cybersecurity Collaboration

Inuwa stressed that cybersecurity is a global concern, requiring strategic partnerships and international cooperation to enhance cyber diplomacy.

He explained that Nigeria is working with other nations and local businesses to develop cybersecurity frameworks tailored to its unique digital landscape.

Mark Smithson, Country Director of the UK’s Department of Business and Trade (DBT), reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening its £7.5 billion trade relationship with Nigeria through enhanced cybersecurity collaboration.

“The UK is committed to supporting Nigeria in tackling cyber threats and harnessing digital opportunities as global challenges evolve,” he stated.

“Our partnership is crucial in ensuring a secure and resilient cyberspace for businesses, governments, and citizens alike.”

Smithson highlighted that the UK brings world-class cybersecurity expertise, from cutting-edge technology to capacity-building initiatives, and looks forward to expanding cooperation.

Dr Lawan Mohammed, Director of Cybersecurity, underscored the need for expert collaboration to develop a robust cybersecurity infrastructure and effective frameworks.

He noted that Nigeria has only 8,300 cybersecurity experts, an insufficient number to combat the country’s cyber threats.

Mohammed also identified key areas where international expertise is required, including:

• Threat intelligence development
• Identifying and addressing system vulnerabilities
• Strengthening Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
• Enhancing Nigeria’s National Cybersecurity Architecture

Ross Gill, a UK delegate, acknowledged the growing global cyber threats, emphasising that international partnerships and knowledge-sharing are essential for building stronger defences.