Nigeria’s digital economy is rapidly developing, but so are the potential information security risks that threaten its growth. As more organizations go online and key services rely on digital infrastructure, the threats are higher than ever. However, despite the obvious risk, our nation still lacks the robust collaboration required between the government and the IT industry to successfully protect against these dangers. Government agencies are responsible for protecting national interests, fostering public trust, and implementing digital protection legislation. Meanwhile, tech businesses, notably in fintech, e-commerce, telecommunications, and cybersecurity, are rapidly inventing, creating solutions and identifying dangers in real time. When these two sides fail to collaborate, vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s cyber defense remain unchecked which attackers can actively exploit.
One of the most pressing areas for collaboration is threat intelligence exchange. Many private-sector organizations discover suspicious activity or attempted breaches but are hesitant to disclose them due to a lack of confidence, concern about reputational damage, or unclear processes. On the other hand, government security agencies frequently struggle to obtain reliable, up-to-date information from industry participants. Without a systematic framework for exchanging cyber threat intelligence, both parties are susceptible. Why should threats be left unresolved when faster cooperation may prevent them before they escalate?
Other countries have established public-private cybersecurity frameworks that enable the real-time sharing of threat data, coordination of response tactics, and assistance for small enterprises who lack the means to manage attacks. For example, the United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) works closely with commercial enterprises and critical infrastructure providers to share threat intelligence and provide fast reaction instructions when cyber threats occur. This type of structured cooperation has contributed to a reduction in cyber incidents in both the public and private sectors of the UK. Nigeria must do the same by developing safe, trusted channels for collaboration among regulators, law enforcement, and the technology industry, especially as more local firms go digital.
Another critical issue is policy formation and regulation. Government policies are often developed without adequate input from the people and organizations shaping the country’s digital processes. Regulations that are out of date, undefined, or unduly complicated deter compliance and innovation which result in the lack of clear cybersecurity standards that can put businesses and customers at risk. A truly successful cybersecurity strategy requires ongoing communication and collaboration between authorities and private sector professionals. After all, individuals developing digital tools frequently recognize the risks better than those who write the rules.
Cybersecurity innovation also requires more attention. Nigeria is home to millions of brilliant young minds and leaders that are able to build effective security products. However, many of these brilliant innovators lack access to funding, public contracts, or platforms for scaling their solutions. Nigeria has the potential to establish a robust indigenous cybersecurity business with government support, such as grants, startup support system, and policies that support the development of local cyber talent in the country.
There is also a talent shortage in cybersecurity professionals in the nation. There aren’t enough qualified workers in Nigeria to cover the increasing number of positions required to protect our systems and networks. Even though tech companies spend money on team training, this is insufficient. To develop certification programs, provide cybersecurity courses in schools and universities, and encourage professions in digital defense, the government, business community, and academic institutions must collaborate. In the absence of a qualified professional pipeline, our systems will remain susceptible.
Public awareness is another area where collaboration is required. Every week, Nigerians are victims of phishing scams, fraudulent investment schemes, and social media impersonation attacks. In 2022, a widely reported instance featured scammers duplicating the name of a famous fintech business in order to entice unaware consumers onto a fraudulent investment site which resulted in millions of naira losses. Basic cybersecurity awareness can often help prevent such incidents. Telecom companies, banks, fintech, and other digital platforms can incorporate awareness campaigns into their services, while government agencies can boost these efforts through media partnerships, educational programs, and community engagement. When the general public is informed, the entire country becomes more difficult to be exploited.
But for any of this to succeed, stakeholders in the public and private sectors need to develop trust. Collaboration will never succeed if there is a lack of mutual trust. The government must demonstrate its ability to respond swiftly to threats that are revealed, protect the privacy of data, and encourage innovation rather than impede it. Nigeria is not alone in addressing these cybersecurity challenges. Cyber risks are global. But if we want to compete in the global digital space, we can’t afford to be reactive. Our defense must be proactive, coordinated, and based on solid alliances. The penalty of inaction is too high especially as adversaries become more organized, well-funded, and technologically sophisticated.
. Adesola, Security+ Security Analyst
Email: yemiadesola@gmail.com
