Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, has called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to address the growing cybersecurity threats in Nigeria.
Speaking at a three-day retreat for the Senate Committee on National Security and the House Committee on Digital Communication, organized by the Council of Europe in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice in Abuja, Salisu emphasized the need for a united front in tackling cyberattacks.
As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security, Senator Salisu stressed the importance of joint efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
“Cybersecurity is not just a government responsibility. It requires cooperation from every sector, especially private companies who hold vast amounts of data,” he said.
The senator acknowledged the progress made by the Nigerian government in improving cyber defenses but warned that the rapidly evolving nature of cyber threats demands constant innovation.
He expressed concern over the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals, whose activities pose a significant risk to the nation’s economy.
“The implications of cyberattacks can no longer be ignored. If we are serious about building a technology-driven economy, then our cyber defenses must be top-notch,” Salisu added.
Senator Salisu also highlighted the critical role of the digital economy in Nigeria’s future, calling for stronger ICT policies to attract foreign investment and foster local innovation. He noted that the nation’s economic growth relies heavily on its ability to adapt to the digital age.
“The future of work, education, and business is all about technology. We must position ourselves to tap into that potential, not just by passing laws but by creating an enabling environment where innovators and entrepreneurs can thrive,” the senator remarked.
Assuring Nigerians of the Senate Committee’s commitment, Salisu revealed that discussions are already underway with stakeholders to draft a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy.
This plan aims to address both current and emerging challenges in the digital space. “Our committee is dedicated to pushing for laws and policies that will not only protect the country’s digital space but also promote the growth of the tech sector,” he stated.
With Nigeria’s ongoing digital transformation, Senator Salisu’s call for collaboration comes at a crucial time. As businesses and individuals increasingly rely on technology, the potential risks posed by cyber threats must be mitigated to secure the nation’s economic and security interests.
