Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, has urged stronger collaboration between public and private sectors to address the growing cybersecurity threats in Nigeria.
Speaking during a 3-day retreat for the Senate Committee on National Security and House Committee on Digital Communication, organized by the Council of Europe in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice in Abuja, Senator Salisu, who chairs the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security, emphasized the need for a united front in tackling the increasing dangers posed by cyberattacks.
He acknowledged that while Nigeria has made progress in strengthening its cyber infrastructure, the fast-evolving nature of threats requires continuous vigilance and innovation. “Cybersecurity is not solely a government issue; it demands cooperation from all sectors, especially private companies handling vast amounts of data,” Salisu said.
The senator expressed concern about the growing sophistication of cybercriminals, warning that the country’s economic development could be impacted if immediate actions aren’t taken to protect critical data and systems.
“The dangers of cyberattacks are too significant to ignore. If we are serious about creating a tech-driven economy, our cyber defenses must be robust,” Salisu added.
On the digital economy, Senator Salisu stressed the importance of reinforcing ICT policies to attract foreign investments and stimulate local innovation. He argued that Nigeria’s future economic success lies in the technology sector, and with adequate legislative support, the country could become a global tech hub.
“The future of work, education, and commerce revolves around technology. We must position ourselves to seize this opportunity, not just by enacting laws but by fostering an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can flourish,” he said.
The senator reassured Nigerians that the committee he heads is committed to advancing laws and policies that will secure the country’s digital landscape while promoting growth in the tech sector.
He revealed that consultations with stakeholders are underway to develop a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy to address both current and emerging challenges.
As Nigeria continues its digital transformation, the importance of cybersecurity grows more critical. Senator Salisu’s call for collaboration comes as businesses and individuals become increasingly dependent on technology, with the threat of cyberattacks posing significant risks to the nation’s economy and security.
