The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) says it is partnering with the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Certified Fraud Investigator of Nigeria (CIFCFIN) to build a cybersecurity lab in 2024. This collaborative effort aims to enhance Nigeria’s cybersecurity capabilities and combat the growing threat of cybercrime.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, expressed concern over the harmful consequences of cybercrime on the nation’s economy, organisations, and individuals. He emphasised the highlighting the urgent need to build capacity for protection against cybercriminals. He further explained that these adversaries often invest in research and technology before launching their attacks, therefore, stressing the need for a cybersecurity lab as a proactive step to counter their malicious activities.
Director General Inuwa stressed the importance of involving all relevant stakeholders in the project to expedite its design and implementation. “We cannot succeed in isolation. We welcome collaborations and will work with key stakeholders and other Sovereign Nations to achieve the best result,” he emphasised.
To bring its vision to life, NITDA has made investments in diverse technologies, including the Digital Fabrication Lab (FABLAB 1.0). Additionally, the agency has organized cybersecurity training programs across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Thousands of Nigerians have successfully undergone training on esteemed platforms like the Cisco Academy and Coursera.
To further strengthen their collaboration, CIFCFIN requested support from NITDA, including the provision of computers for the Nigerian College of Forensics and Fraud Investigators (NCFFI), technical assistance in deploying their combined e-portal and e-learning platforms, as well as the establishment of a Postgraduate scheme and scholarship programs. Gashinbak affirmed the institute’s commitment to fulfilling its duties in ensuring the success of this collaborative initiative.
Cybercriminals constantly develop new techniques, demanding a proactive approach from our nation to stay ahead of their ever-evolving tactics. The establishment of this cybersecurity lab is a crucial step in promoting digital forensics, revitalising technology, and fostering a secure digital environment.
