NITDA and Kaspersky Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Nigeria's Cybersecurity

Strengthening Nigeria’s Cybersecurity Through Strategic Collaboration

Nigeria is taking a significant step forward in its quest to enhance digital security by forming a strategic partnership with Kaspersky, a global leader in cybersecurity. This collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during the GTIEX Nigeria event in Lagos. The agreement marks a pivotal moment in the country’s digital transformation and reflects a strong commitment to securing critical infrastructure.

The MoU aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), particularly under its fifth pillar focused on “Strengthening Cybersecurity and Enhancing Digital Trust.” It also supports the Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes national security for peace and prosperity. This partnership underscores Nigeria’s growing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding its digital future.

Human Capacity as the Foundation of Cybersecurity

The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, highlighted that the foundation of cybersecurity lies in human capacity. He pointed out that more than 95% of cyber breaches are caused by human error. “Our first line of defense must be the people. We need to build talent, raise awareness, and ensure fluency in how technology is used,” he stated.

Inuwa emphasized that while MoUs often attract media attention, the real value lies in their implementation. “We have already started working with Kaspersky even before this signing. For us, it is about impact, not just paperwork. We want the media and the public to hold us accountable for delivering on this partnership.”

He added that the collaboration would address various aspects of cybersecurity, from the safe use of smartphones by children and older people to protecting facilities of critical infrastructure. “Our collaboration with Kaspersky, which has deep expertise in all these areas, will be another step in building multi-layered national security.”

Kaspersky’s Commitment to Nigeria’s Digital Future

Chris Norton, General Manager of Kaspersky Africa, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and Nigeria’s digital potential. “We are doubling down on the Nigerian market. Africa doesn’t need charity, it needs skills. Through public-private partnerships like this, we can accelerate value creation for communities and governments.”

Kaspersky is committed to supporting Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem and will also become a supporting member of the Nigerian Computer Society. Norton added, “This is the first step in a direction that I believe will lead to far bigger things for the Nigerian people and government. We are excited to work together to build a safer digital future.”

Key Areas of Focus in the MoU

The scope of the MoU includes several key areas such as cybersecurity training, capacity building, public awareness campaigns, information sharing, and protection of critical national infrastructure. Both NITDA and Kaspersky will exchange relevant technical information, threat intelligence, and data feeds related to cyberthreats and cyberattacks affecting citizens, businesses, and government in Nigeria.

Kaspersky will also provide advice for NITDA’s consideration in the development of cybersecurity frameworks and standards for critical information infrastructures in Nigeria. This collaborative effort aims to create a robust defense mechanism against emerging cyber threats.

Immediate Implementation and Proactive Measures

The signing ceremony concluded with a shared commitment to begin implementation immediately, focusing on proactive measures to counter emerging cyber threats and build a resilient digital infrastructure. This partnership builds on an earlier engagement at GITEX Africa in Marrakech, Morocco, where the initial groundwork for collaboration was laid. It also follows similar agreements Kaspersky has signed with other Nigerian institutions, including SMEDAN.

Through this strategic alliance, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in cybersecurity within the African continent, leveraging global expertise to protect its digital assets and foster a secure environment for its citizens and businesses.