FG Moves to Strengthen Cybersecurity Coordination as NDPC Review Ecosystem Data Protection Compliance

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, says the Federal Government plans to work with the private sector and other stakeholders to establish a cybersecurity coordination council.

The initiative, according to Tijani, is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s cyber resilience and improving coordinated responses to emerging cyber threats across public and private sectors.

In a recent statement, the minister said cybersecurity requires collaboration among government, industry and civil society.

His words: “Cybersecurity is a shared national responsibility. Protecting Nigeria’s digital economy requires strong partnerships, trusted collaboration, and collective vigilance across government, industry, and civil society.”

Tijani said the proposed council will support efforts to detect cyber threats early and improve response mechanisms.

“Through collaborative action and sustained engagement, we are strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to detect threats early, respond effectively, and build a resilient and trusted digital ecosystem,” he noted.

He also called on stakeholders to participate actively in building a sustainable cybersecurity framework.

“Stakeholders must help shape a sustainable, partnership-led cybersecurity model capable of deterring cybercriminal activity and protecting citizens, businesses, and national digital infrastructure,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) said it is investigating an alleged data breach involving Remita Payment Services Ltd., Sterling Bank and other organisations.

In a statement signed by Babatunde Bamigboye, Head of Legal, Enforcement and Regulations at the commission, the NDPC said notices of investigation were issued on April 1.

“The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is carrying out an investigation into an alleged data breach involving Remita Payment Services Ltd., Sterling Bank and other entities.

“In line with the Commission’s procedure, Notice of Investigation was duly served on the 1st of April, 2026.

“Relevant parties and individuals have been providing information for the purpose of addressing the incident,” part of the statement read.

The NDPC said the investigation will examine the type of personal data involved and the potential risks to affected individuals.

“The aim of the investigation is to ensure that data subjects are protected with appropriate technical and organisational measures.

“The investigation by NDPC covers, among others, the types of personal data involved, the nature and scope of the alleged breach, the risk to data subjects and the mitigation measures carried out where a breach is confirmed,” the NDPC said.

The commission added that organisations using digital payment systems without adequate safeguards will also be scrutinised.

“The Commission’s National Commissioner/CEO, Dr Vincent Olatunji, has directed that organisations that employ digital payment systems without putting in place appropriate technical and organisational measures as mandated under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 (NDP Act), will also be examined as part of a wider effort to ensure the integrity of the ecosystem,” the statement concluded.