Nigeria: NSA Directs Full Implementation of Cybercrime Act 2024

Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, has instructed the comprehensive enforcement of the provisions outlined in the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Amendment Act 2024. This legislation represents a crucial step in combating cyber threats and enhancing cybersecurity measures nationwide.In a statement released by Zakari Mijinyawa, the Head of Strategic Communications Office of the National Security Adviser, Ribadu emphasized the importance of implementing the Act effectively to safeguard the country's digital infrastructure and protect against cyber-related crimes.

One key aspect of the directive is the operationalization of the National Cybersecurity Fund. This fund, as specified in the Act, is designed to support cybersecurity initiatives and activities aimed at strengthening the nation's resilience against cyber threats. By ensuring the active participation of all relevant regulators and businesses listed in the second schedule of the Act, the government aims to mobilize resources and expertise to bolster cybersecurity efforts across various sectors.The directive underscores the government's recognition of the growing cybersecurity challenges facing the country and the need for proactive measures to mitigate risks and safeguard critical digital assets.

It signals a concerted effort to enhance cybersecurity governance, foster collaboration between public and private stakeholders, and promote a culture of cyber resilience and awareness.Through effective implementation of the Cybercrimes Amendment Act and the operationalization of the National Cybersecurity Fund, the government aims to create a more secure digital environment for businesses, individuals, and government institutions, ultimately contributing to the country's overall cybersecurity posture and national security.

The National Security Adviser emphasized the imperative of safeguarding Nigeria's Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), countering terrorism and violent extremism, bolstering national security, and protecting economic interests. To address these priorities, he issued a directive for the comprehensive implementation of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Amendment Act 2024.This directive encompasses the full enforcement of the provisions outlined in the amended legislation, which aims to combat cybercrimes effectively. Additionally, it calls for the operationalization of the National Cybersecurity Fund by all relevant regulators and businesses specified in the second schedule of the Act. This fund is instrumental in supporting cybersecurity initiatives, enhancing resilience against cyber threats, and strengthening the overall cybersecurity posture of Nigeria.

By emphasizing the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures and the utilization of dedicated resources through the National Cybersecurity Fund, the National Security Adviser aims to enhance Nigeria's cybersecurity capabilities, mitigate cyber risks, and safeguard critical national interests in the digital domain.Nigeria's accession to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime on July 6, 2022, marked a significant step towards enhancing international cooperation in combating cybercrime. By joining the league of 66 other countries that have signed and ratified the convention, Nigeria aimed to establish a common platform and procedural tools to ensure efficient and secure cyberspace.

This move was in accordance with Section 41(2)(a) of the Cybercrime Act 2015, which mandates the alignment of Nigerian cybercrime and cybersecurity laws and policies with regional and international standards. By adhering to the Budapest Convention, Nigeria demonstrated its commitment to adopting best practices in addressing cyber threats, promoting cooperation with other countries in tackling cybercrime, and safeguarding its digital infrastructure and citizens' online security.