November 20, 2024
Caption: Left – Dr. Martin Ikephai, Chief Operating Officer, Computer Audit Control and Security (CACS) Associates Ltd;
Mr. Prince Akamadu, Chief Audit Executive, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria;
Dr. David Isiavwe, President, Information Security Society of Africa-Nigeria (ISSAN)/Executive Director; Nova Bank;
Austen Osokpor, Head, Corporate Communications, Ecobank Nigeria Ltd and
Dr. Bode Oguntoke, Head, Internal Audit, FBN Holdings Plc at the 2024 Cybersecurity conference organised by ISSAN in Lagos.
The Information Security Society of Africa Nigeria, ISSAN, has raised concerns over the escalated cybersecurity threats in Nigeria and called for a national awareness campaign program that would encompass community engagements, redesigning of school curricula, and strategic Public-Private Partnerships to curb the menace.
ISSAN’s president and Executive Director NOVA Bank, Dr. David Isiavwe, stated this at this year’s Cybersecurity Conference in Lagos.
Isiavwe, in his address, said Nigeria has experienced millions of cyberattacks in just the first half of the year, accounting for about 64% increase in data breaches reported nationally.
“In today’s interconnected world, cybersecurity is not merely a technical issue; it is a fundamental pillar of our national security, economic stability, and societal well-being. Nigeria, like many nations, faces significant cybersecurity challenges that demand our immediate and sustained attention. While we have made remarkable progress in digital transformation, the increase in internet access and digital technologies brings heightened cybersecurity risks.”
“Cyber threats such as phishing, ransomware, and data breaches are becoming more sophisticated and frequent, posing serious risks to financial institutions, government agencies, and private enterprises,” he stated.
To curb the enormous challenge resulting from cybercrime, Dr. Isiavwe, recommend focusing on talent development and capacity building.
“We need to invest in cybersecurity education and training to nurture a new generation of experts equipped to protect our digital infrastructure. This requires collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector to create comprehensive training programs and career pathways in cybersecurity.”
The NOVA bank executive, encouraged advanced opportunities for current IT professionals to transition into cybersecurity roles, alongside public awareness campaigns, to educate citizens about cybersecurity threats and safe online practices. Additionally, he called for the creation of incentives to retain talent in the country, such as competitive salaries, career advancement opportunities, and supportive working environments.
The well attended conference also had discussions on various sub-topics, such as building a cybersecurity workforce in Nigeria, future trends and challenges, and the role of innovation, entrepreneurship, and policy in addressing the cybersecurity gap. Industry experts like Richard Amanfoye, Gbolabo Awolewa, and Dr. Harrison Nnaji, Oluseyi Akindeinde, Dr. Obadare Adewale and Bar. Basil Udotai, were the Panellists in sessions that was moderated by Dr Bode Oguntoke.
ISSAN, has for nearly two decades, been at the forefront of promoting information security in Nigeria and across Africa
