The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of Nigeria has reported that its official website has been compromised by hackers. The breach was announced via the bureau’s X (formerly Twitter) handle on December 18, 2024, with a message stating: “This is to inform the public that the NBS Website has been hacked and we are working to recover it. Please disregard any message or report posted until the website is fully restored. Thank you.”
The NBS, as Nigeria’s principal agency for collecting, analysing, and disseminating statistical data, plays a crucial role in informing policy decisions and providing insights into the nation’s socio-economic landscape. The website serves as a repository for vital statistics on various sectors, including the economy, health, education, and more. A breach of this nature not only disrupts the bureau’s operations but also raises concerns about the integrity and security of sensitive national data.
This incident is part of a broader trend of escalating cyberattacks targeting Nigerian institutions. According to a recent report by Check Point Software Technologies, Nigeria experiences approximately 18,872 cyberattacks monthly, positioning the country 19th globally in terms of attack volume as of July 2024. Government agencies are particularly vulnerable, facing an average of 1,791 weekly attacks.
The surge in cyber threats can be attributed to Nigeria’s rapid digitalisation and expanding online presence. As more services and data move online, the attack surface for cybercriminals widens, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures. Financial institutions have been notably affected, with significant financial losses reported due to fraudulent activities. Between 2019 and 2023, bank customers in Nigeria lost approximately N59.33 billion to fraudsters.
In response to these challenges, cybersecurity experts emphasise the need for proactive measures to enhance resilience against cyber threats. Lionel Dartnall, acting country manager for South Africa at Check Point Software Technologies, stated, “The rapid digitalisation of Africa’s key sectors has positioned the continent as a prime target for sophisticated cyber threats.” Similarly, Issam El Haddioui, Head of Security Sales Engineering for Africa at Check Point, advised, “Now is the time for African organisations to take proactive steps to align with global standards and bolster their cybersecurity resilience.”
Someone hacking into the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) website shows how urgently Nigerian organizations need to improve their online security. Protecting digital assets is not merely a technical necessity but a safeguard for national security and economic stability. As the digital landscape evolves, so too must the strategies to defend against those who seek to exploit its vulnerabilities.
In the interim, the NBS has advised the public to disregard any information from its website until the issue is resolved. Users are encouraged to rely on official communications from the bureau’s verified social media channels for accurate updates. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of cybersecurity vigilance in an increasingly digital world.
