Nigeria’s Federal Government has unveiled a strategic plan to set up a national cybersecurity coordination council aimed at reinforcing the country’s defense against escalating digital security risks. According to an official communication released by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the proposed council will function as a collaborative platform that brings together multiple stakeholders to improve coordination, intelligence exchange, and joint action between both public and private sector entities. The initiative, led by the Minister of Communications, Bosun Tijani, is designed to enhance Nigeria’s readiness in addressing complex cyberattacks that have increasingly affected critical industries and disrupted institutional operations nationwide. The ministry explained that the council will operate as a non-legislative body, incorporating key players such as Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), cybersecurity experts, technology companies, security agencies, and relevant government organizations. This diverse composition is expected to foster stronger partnerships and unified responses to cyber incidents. In its statement, the ministry emphasized that the council will serve as a central hub for aligning national cybersecurity efforts. It will encourage reliable information sharing, coordinated responses, and sustained collaboration among institutions tasked with safeguarding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. Additionally, the council is expected to provide strategic advisory support to the federal government by recommending policies, frameworks, and proactive measures to strengthen national cyber resilience. This development follows a series of recent cyber incidents that exposed vulnerabilities within both private organizations and public systems. These attacks not only disrupted services but also posed significant risks to users and customers, highlighting the evolving sophistication and coordination of modern cyber threats. Furthermore, the ministry noted that the initiative will be implemented in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and other relevant stakeholders. The goal is to establish structured collaborations that will enhance cybersecurity frameworks across all sectors. The government reiterated that tackling today’s cyber risks requires a collective defense approach. By promoting trusted intelligence sharing and multi-stakeholder cooperation, Nigeria aims to build a more resilient and secure digital ecosystem capable of withstanding emerging threats. For a broader understanding of global cybersecurity practices, you can refer to the National Institute of Standards and Technology cybersecurity framework, which outlines internationally recognized standards for managing cyber risks.
