The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is set to resume its operations on January 15, 2025, three weeks after a cyberattack temporarily crippled its systems. The cyberattack, which took place on December 18, 2024, disrupted public access to crucial national data and raised significant concerns about the security of sensitive information.
During a Thursday workshop hosted by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Condia, a representative of the bureau, confirmed the timeline for resuming operations. The NBS also announced that both the old and new Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures would be released upon resumption.
In the immediate aftermath of the breach, the NBS advised citizens to disregard any updates from its platforms, stressing the importance of ensuring data integrity before restoring services.
This incident is part of a broader trend, as Nigeria has experienced a surge in cyberattacks targeting both public and private institutions. According to the Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT), ransomware attacks on local organizations have increased sharply in recent years, affecting sectors such as finance, technology, and public administration.
In 2024 alone, Nigerian financial institutions reported losses exceeding ₦17 billion due to fraud, underscoring the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity frameworks. Additionally, major institutions have faced significant penalties for inadequate data protection, with fines exceeding ₦200 million imposed on banks for privacy violations.
The breach at the NBS serves as a wake-up call for Nigeria to bolster its defenses against the evolving threat landscape. Government initiatives, such as the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) and the establishment of cybersecurity operation centers, are crucial steps in this direction. Collaborative efforts between public entities and private firms, such as the partnership between Flutterwave and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to establish a Cybercrime Research Center, demonstrate a growing commitment to combating cybercrime.
While the NBS has announced its plans to resume operations, the importance of continuous vigilance cannot be overstated. Strengthening cybersecurity policies, investing in advanced technologies, and educating personnel about digital threats are essential to ensuring the resilience of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
As institutions increasingly adopt digital solutions, the need for robust cybersecurity frameworks becomes imperative. The experience of the NBS highlights that proactive measures, rather than reactive responses, will shape the future of secure digital operations in Nigeria.
