Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has called for enhanced collaboration in cybersecurity efforts during the National Cybercrime Summit held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on October 22, 2024. The summit, organized by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) and the European Union, focused on developing digital skills as a vital strategy to combat the rising tide of cybercrime. This initiative aligns with a broader commitment to strengthening digital resilience and fostering a secure online environment essential for sustainable national development in Nigeria.
Under the theme “Alternative to Cybercrime: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development,” the summit served as a critical platform for key stakeholders, including government officials, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations, to address the growing challenges posed by cybercrime. The event was officially inaugurated by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who underscored the importance of a coordinated national response to cyber threats. During her address, she launched a new Rapid Response Centre aimed at tackling cybercrime emergencies, a facility expected to enhance the nation’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to cyber incidents, thereby minimizing potential damage to individuals and organizations.
During the summit, Governor Inuwa Yahaya emphasized the importance of multi-level cooperation in combating cybercrime. He praised the EFCC for organizing the event, recognizing it as a timely initiative to confront the escalating challenges of cybercrime in Nigeria. The governor highlighted the need to leverage technology and actively engage youth in promoting positive alternatives to cyber activities. He reiterated his administration’s readiness to partner with the EFCC and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive framework that encourages responsible digital behavior among the younger generation while discouraging involvement in criminal activities.
The summit attracted a diverse group of prominent figures, including the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, governors from Katsina and Zamfara states, members of the National Assembly, and traditional leaders such as the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sa’ad Abubakar III. Their collective participation underscores a shared commitment to enhancing cybersecurity measures and protecting citizens from the threats posed by cybercrime. This high-level engagement signifies a unified approach to addressing the complexities of cyber threats in Nigeria, ultimately contributing to the establishment of a safer digital landscape for all Nigerians. As the nation grapples with the challenges of cybercrime, the outcomes of this summit could pave the way for a more secure and resilient digital future.
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