Cybercrime A National Security Threat, Declares Nigerian Police Force

Abuja, Nigeria – The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has declared cybercrime a significant threat to Nigeria’s national security, calling for immediate action to address the issue.

Egbetokun, speaking at the opening of the Nigerian Police Force National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF NCCC) 2024 Cybersecurity Week, emphasized that cybercrime is not just a technical issue but a matter of national security that requires urgent attention.

The week-long event, themed “Secure Our World”, brought together various stakeholders, including government agencies, law enforcement, private sector partners, and individuals, to discuss and develop strategies to combat the growing cybercrime threat.

“As we embrace the digital age, we must also confront the stark reality that cyber threats pose significant threats to our national security,” warned Egbetokun, who was represented by Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Bala Ciroma.

He highlighted the global nature of cybercrime, with criminals operating across borders, exploiting vulnerabilities in systems, and targeting individuals, businesses, and government institutions.

“These threats can disrupt critical infrastructure, compromise sensitive information and undermine the very fabric of our society,” he stressed.

DIG Abiodun Alabi, head of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), further emphasized the urgent need for proactive policing strategies to counter cybercrime, noting that “crime-fighting worldwide has shifted from reactive to proactive policing, preventing crimes before they occur.”

He pointed out that cybercrime knows no borders and presents a global challenge demanding international collaboration.

“The NPF NCCC is at the forefront of combating cybercrime with experts skilled in digital forensics, data analysis, and cybersecurity,” Alabi said, highlighting the centre’s successes in dismantling major cybercrime networks domestically and internationally.

CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, Director of the NPF-NCCC, underscored the crucial role of cybersecurity in today’s interconnected world.

He acknowledged the potential for cybercrime to cripple systems, disrupt services, and compromise the safety and privacy of citizens.

“Cybercrime knows no borders, and its impact can be felt across all sectors,” he stated.

“This event comes at a critical time, as we must all come together to share knowledge, expertise, and strategies to counter these growing challenges.”

The UNODC, represented by Danilo Campisi, also emphasized the critical role of the Nigerian Police Force in protecting both national and international cyber environments.

He outlined the UN’s commitment to assisting member states in combating cybercrime, particularly through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and strengthening legal frameworks.

The Nigerian Police Force’s Cybersecurity Week serves as a crucial platform for raising awareness, sharing best practices, and fostering collaboration in the fight against cybercrime.

This event underscores the growing global concern surrounding cybercrime and the need for concerted efforts from governments, law enforcement, and private sector partners to address this critical threat.