The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu has stated that the government is building a safer and more resilient digital Nigeria, to inspire confidence and drive innovation.
He, therefore, urged both public and private sector stakeholders to work collaboratively towards its realisation.
The NSA spoke at the opening ceremony of the maiden edition of the National Cyber Security Conference, held on Wednesday in Abuja.
The conference was organised by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Galaxy Backbone (GBB), Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Cisco.
Speaking, Ribadu said, “Together we are building a safer, more resilient digital Nigeria. One that can inspire confidence, drive innovation, and secure our future,” he said.
Also speaking, the American Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills stated that his country is committed to working with Nigeria to secure the cyber space and ensure a safe digital future for Nigeria.
“The United States is committed to working with Nigeria to fight cyber security and ensure a safe digital future,” he said.
On his part, the Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, noted that the commission is building a 500-capacity facility that would harness the talents of young Nigerians involved in cyber fraud for the benefit of the nation.
The Director General, NITDA, Kachifu Abdullahi in his speech noted that the major aim of the NCSC 2025: is to strengthen national cybersecurity resilience by fostering collaboration between government, industry, and international partners.
“Enhance the protection of critical infrastructure through robust cybersecurity policies and frameworks., Facilitate global partnerships to combat cyber threats and enhance intelligence sharing, Promote cybersecurity education and skill development through competitions, training, and technical sessions. And Encourage investments in cybersecurity technologies by showcasing innovative solutions and industry best practices.”
He also spoke on the proposed awards by the conference, saying that “a total of twelve awards would be presented across four categories: four awards under the Individual category, three under the Government/Public Sector category, three under the Research and Innovation category and two under Compliance to the Code of Practice.”
The Chairman Senate Committee on ICT zahrah, Sen. Shuaibu Salisu, in his goodwill message, advised NITDA to give digital orientation to newly elected Legislators for ease of legislative business.
