Plans are underway to build a United Kingdom/Nigeria National Cybersecurity Architecture. This project is facilitated by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
The Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, recently met with UK delegates in Abuja, where he stated that President Bola Tinubu is committed to economic reforms and transformation, which digitalisation can drive.
Inuwa noted that NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0 would enhance the country’s digitalisation by ensuring a digitally literate populace that is well-informed about cybersecurity concerns.
He said the federal government is working towards embedding cybersecurity in all aspects of general activities, adding that 95 percent of cyber breaches result from human errors.
“We need to educate both users and operators on cybersecurity, which is part of our mandate. We have a target of achieving a 95 percent digital literacy level,” he said.
“We are focused on building expertise and training our people on how to safeguard our digital space.”
He added that they are conducting research on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, Blockchain, robotics, and additive manufacturing.
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The DG further explained that as emerging technologies evolve, cybersecurity must also advance.
“We need to evolve in how we discuss cybersecurity and in securing the systems we are building,” he said.
He noted that while AI did not pose significant threats in the past, it now requires explainability to prevent its misuse.
Inuwa also emphasised that cybersecurity is a global concern, and addressing it requires strategic partnerships and collaboration within a global ecosystem to strengthen cyber diplomacy.
He added that they are collaborating with other countries, working with local businesses to build security systems tailored to Nigeria’s cyber landscape.
Mr. Mark Smithson, Country Director of the Department of Business and Trade (DBT), UK, responded by stating that the relationship between Nigeria and the UK is valued at £7.5 billion, and both nations are committed to strengthening it by building safer cyber spaces.
“The UK remains firmly committed to supporting Nigeria in tackling cybersecurity challenges and harnessing the opportunities of the digital age as global threats evolve.
“Our partnership is more crucial than ever in ensuring a safe and resilient cyberspace for businesses, governments, and citizens alike.
“The UK is proud to bring world-class expertise in cybersecurity to Nigeria, from cutting-edge technology to capacity-building initiatives. Our strong track record in cyber resilience, threat intelligence, and innovation presents a valuable opportunity.
“We look forward to expanding our cooperation, sharing knowledge, deepening our bilateral trade, and building a secure digital future together,” Smithson said.
Other speakers, including Dr. Lawan Mohammed, Director of Cybersecurity at NITDA, and Mr. Ross Gill, highlighted the need for expert collaboration to build a strong cybersecurity infrastructure, particularly for the effective implementation of cybersecurity frameworks.
They also noted the need for capacity-building in cybersecurity expertise, stating that the current number of cybersecurity professionals in Nigeria—about 8,300—is insufficient to address the country’s cyber threats.
Additionally, they emphasised that the federal government requires expertise to develop threat intelligence, identify vulnerabilities, preserve Public Key Infrastructure, and build a resilient National Cybersecurity Architecture, among other areas.
They acknowledged the growing threats worldwide, stating that partnerships and the sharing of best practices could help strengthen cyber defenses.
