As part of efforts to strengthen counter terrorism measures, halt violent extremism, as well as protect Nigeria’s Critical National Information Infrastructure, the Office of the National Security Adviser, has called for the full implementation of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Amendment Act 2024.
A statement by the Head, Strategic Communication Office of the National Security Adviser, Zakari Mijinyawa said the implementation includes the operationalisation of the National Cyber security Fund by all regulators and businesses specified in the second schedule of the Act all geared towards strengthening national security and to protect economic interests of the country.
It would be recalled that on 6 July 2022, Nigeria joined 66 other countries in signing and gratifying the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime to enhance international cooperation, provide common platform and procedural tools for efficient and safe cyberspace pursuant to section 41(2) (a) of the Cybercrime Act 2015. As a signatory, Nigeria’s cybercrime, cyber security laws and policies are required to conform to regional and international standards.
This is move is emphasised by one of the resolutions reached during the High Level African International Counter Terrorism Meeting held in Abuja between 22 and 23 April 2024.
The resolution called for the improved deployment of greater support and resources towards strengthening cyber security activities in Africa and taking concrete steps to prevent the use of social media and other platforms by terrorists as well as organised criminal groups.
Dominica Nwabufo
