As the world marks the Cyber security Awareness Month in October, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami has directed NCC, NITDA, NIMC, Galaxy Backbone and NigComSat to embark on nationwide cyber security awareness programme.
This 31-day awareness drive according to the minister will enable Nigerians obtain the knowledge required to embrace the digital economy and its many benefits, while protecting themselves against the tactics of cybercriminals.
The minister urges everyone to be extra-cautious and reinforce security measures while interacting online, especially when it involves sensitive information.
He stated that cyber security awareness has become imperative due to the attendant risks that emanate from the appreciable migration of several transactions, meetings, lectures and other forms of interaction to online and digital platforms due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
He added that the importance of cyber security awareness is emphasized in pillar #6 (Soft Infrastructure) of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) for a digital Nigeria. “The soft infrastructure pillar aims to ensure that Nigerians are secure online.
Furthermore, Section 106(1(c)) of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 states the role of the Nigerian Communications Commission in the protection of consumer information. Similarly, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Act 2007 Section 6(l) states the role of NITDA in promoting the development of information technology to enhance national security.”
He added that, the Nigeria National Cybersecurity Framework also prescribes guidance for public and private sector organizations for instituting measures for enshrining cybersecurity culture and enthrone cyber-resiliency in Nigeria.
“The Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy is committed to keeping Nigerians safe online and wishes citizens a successful Cybersecurity Awareness Month,” he said.
