The Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency, (NITDA), Mal. Kashifu Inuwa, has posited that a secured cyberspace is key to the Nigeria’s pursuit of digital economy.
The NITDA boss believes that safer cyber ecosystem is critical and an enabler that could catalyse the transformation of Nigeria into a leading digital economy that is capable of providing quality life for all.
Mal. Inuwa, while speaking at a webinar, which was part of the events lined up to create awareness on cyber security for the month of October 16, 2020, also noted that since the use of digital platforms has critically enhanced productivity at all levels; be it individual, governments, organizations, multinationals, corporate entities and civil society groups, the need for a secured cyberspace must be canvassed.
The theme of the event where Mal. Inuwa spoke is “Cyber Security Controls and Precautions for Parents and Kids; ” The Worth of Your Digital Identity”; and “Phishing: SMS and Email”.
Mal. Inuwa spoke through the Director, Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions, Dr Usman Abdullahi.
According to him, as part of efforts of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy at securing the cyberspace for Nigeria as enshrined in the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, Mal. Abdullahi declared that “ineffective cybersecurity coordination could lead to a devastating blow on the positives of the digital economy.”
He said the cardinal objective for this year’s programme therefore is to give Nigerians every available clue to avoid the tricks of the criminals, and where it inevitably occurs, report to appropriate authorities adding many Nigerians have fallen victims to cybercriminals largely due to lack of awareness on what to do and avoid, while on cyberspace.
Describing the webinar as apt, the DG stated that protection of digital presence in a highly connected world remains the greatest measure to ensure safety online. He advised Nigerians to keep their personally identifiable information a secret as is the first step in staying safe, and free from the unwholesome practices of the cybercriminals.