President Bola Tinubu has directed the eradication of inter-agency competition among law enforcement bodies, highlighting that the current state of insecurity in the country demands united action to combat it.
Delivering this message was the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, representing the President during the launch of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja on Wednesday.
He acknowledged, “The security landscape in the country is a complex mix of threats presented by well-structured non-state entities.
Dealing with this necessitates a combined effort from all stakeholders within the security framework. Hence, I advocate for the eradication of inter-agency rivalries and encourage law enforcement agencies to adopt a synchronized, cooperative approach.”
Tinubu ensured that his administration will prioritize the acquisition of arms and weaponry, alongside other measures, to ensure the police force is adequately equipped.
He stated, “Aligned with our policy goal of overhauling the Nigeria Police Force, we are dedicated to further investing in the Nigeria Police Force by acquiring adequate arms, weapons, essential equipment, as well as recruitment and ongoing training to enhance the number, quality, and readiness of our police personnel.”
Describing cybercrime as a modern form of offenses, Tinubu remarked that the country is experiencing a surge in cybercriminal threats.
He affirmed his administration’s commitment to curbing all types of criminal activities in the nation.
He mentioned, “This administration remains resolute in combatting all forms of criminality. As a burgeoning and swiftly evolving class of offense, cybercrime presents a new battleground in that struggle. We are observing a rise in threats posed by cybercriminals, online financial fraudsters, and cyber terrorists who exploit the internet to organize and carry out their disruptive and malevolent deeds.
“The magnitude of this challenge cannot be overstated. The rapid advancements in technologies, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the introduction of 5G technology have collectively amplified the range and diversity of cyber threats.
Since 2020, there has been an unprecedented surge in the use of social media in Nigeria to disseminate subversive messages and incite violence.”
Tinubu mentioned that the Federal Government has made several policy decisions, including revising the National Cybercrime Strategy, to mitigate the myriad threats posed by cybercrimes.
The President advocated for cooperation between the NCC and the Office of the National Security Adviser to ensure enhanced oversight of online activities.
In his remarks, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, highlighted the achievements of the NPF-NCC in its short operational period. He remarked, “The center has been actively involved in high-impact interventions addressing cybercrime-related breaches and attacks.
Some of these attacks targeted government and non-governmental bodies. Numerous suspects in these cases have been apprehended and prosecuted, while trials are ongoing for new cases.”
Egbetokun also disclosed that the center has successfully recovered 70% of stolen funds and assets.