Strengthening Expertise in Fundamentals of the Internet and Cybersecurity

In its commitment to reinforcing its dedication to bolstering digital expertise and the nation’s cybersecurity defence, .NG Academy recently trained members of the Nigerian security agencies on measures to strengthen their expertise in the fundamentals of the internet and cybersecurity. Sunday Ehigiator reports

Cybersecurity is the body of technologies, processes, and practices designed to protect networks, computers, programmes and data from attack, damage or unauthorised access. And the internet is a strong tool that enhances cybersecurity.

Simply put, the term cybersecurity refers to techniques and practices designed to protect digital data; it is the data that is stored, transmitted or used on an information system. After all, that is what criminals want, data; hence it must be protected at all costs.

The network, internet, servers, and computers are just mechanisms to get to the data. Effective cybersecurity reduces the risk of cyber-attacks and protects organizations and individuals from the unauthorized exploitation of systems, networks, and technologies.

It was the need to better improve on the expertise of the Nigeria security agencies, that the academy conducted the three-day training programme from July 25 – 27, 2023.

The joint initiative is organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA) through its .NG Academy was specifically tailored to meet the needs of security agencies in Nigeria given their crucial role in safeguarding the nation against cyber threats and attacks.

The training was well attended by high-ranking officials from various security agencies, including EFCC, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Security & Civil Defence Corps, Code of Conduct Bureau, Department of State Security, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons.

Their presence reflected a strong desire to elevate their expertise in protecting Nigeria’s digital space.

Throughout the event, the experienced facilitators shared insights into combating cyber threats. Their presence not only enriched the training but also provided an opportunity for security agencies to establish valuable networks within the industry.

In his opening remarks on behalf of the NiRA President, Mr. Muhammed Rudman, the lead facilitator, and immediate past president of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), as well as the CEO of Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), Mr Adesola Akinsanya expressed NiRA’s commitment to collaborating with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to train law enforcement professionals.

He emphasized that NARA’s primary objective was to empower security agencies with the necessary knowledge and expertise to safeguard the nation’s critical assets from cyber threats effectively.

“By equipping professionals with cutting-edge skills, the Academy in collaboration with the EFCC is establishing a robust line of defence against cyber adversaries.”

He also highlighted the importance of creating a cohesive security ecosystem as the Academy in collaboration with the EFCC training programme aims to bring together key stakeholders from both the private sector and the government to foster collaboration and to collectively address cybersecurity challenges and offer capacity-building initiatives for the benefit of all involved parties.

Also speaking, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, IT, Research and Innovation at Baze University, Dr Rislan A. Kanya, examined the overall impact of cloud computing on human development in Nigeria.

He also examined the significance of policy, strategy, collaboration, and operational measures in enhancing human development through cloud computing.

In his address, the CEO of Cysec Nigeria, Mr Victor Idonor, highlighted information security principles and how they relate to cybercrime.

While Director, Programmes and Projects, African University of Science and Technology, Dr Daniel Omofoman; Director, Research and Development, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Dr Agu Collins Agu and Mr Chuks Onuoha spoke about Radio Frequency Identification Technology, its adoption and implementation as well as its increasing importance in law enforcement operations.

As the participants departed with newfound knowledge and strengthened capabilities, .NG Academy expressed dedication to fostering a safer digital environment through comprehensive and specialized training programmes.

In a statement made available to the press, it said, “The Academy’s commitment to equipping security agencies with cutting-edge knowledge in the fundamentals of the internet and cybersecurity is expected to have a profound impact on national security.

“Armed with the latest techniques and strategies, security professionals are now better prepared to safeguard critical infrastructures, protect sensitive data, and thwart potential cyberattacks.

 “As cyber threats continue to escalate in complexity and frequency, the NG Academy’s initiative to strengthen security agencies’ expertise in the Fundamentals of the Internet and Cybersecurity comes as a beacon of hope for safeguarding the nation’s digital assets.

“By investing in the development of skilled cybersecurity professionals, Nigeria takes a significant step forward in establishing a secure and resilient cyber environment.”

Quote

Armed with the latest techniques and strategies, security professionals are now better prepared to safeguard critical infrastructures, protect sensitive data, and thwart potential cyberattacks