Building a Safer Web: Nigeria’s Push for Stronger Cyber Security

According to the Federal Government, this digital shift will prepare diplomats for an era where technology dictates international security, trade, and communication.

At the ACDD 2.0 seminar in Abuja on Tuesday reported by Persecondnews, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye highlighted the urgency of the initiative, urging Nigerian diplomats to transition from a reactive posture to proactive, technology-driven foresight.

“The contemporary international system is undergoing a profound transformation, such that the boundaries between diplomacy, economics, security, science and technology are becoming fluid,” he said.

According to the Minister, the Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Diplomacy Unit, established after the maiden edition of the seminar in 2025, will coordinate Nigeria’s engagement and strengthen participation in global digital governance.

“The unit will serve as a focal point for coordinating Nigeria’s engagement on emerging technological issues and ensuring our diplomatic engagements reflect the strategic implications of new technologies.”

He stressed that Nigeria’s diplomatic service must develop stronger digital capabilities to remain competitive in the evolving global landscape.

“Anticipatory diplomacy requires a shift from reactive approaches to proactive engagement, with stronger institutional readiness and enhanced digital capabilities within our diplomatic service,” he added.

On his part, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, noted that technology has become central to modern security challenges.

“In today’s world, technology shapes security, economies and international relations. Criminal networks increasingly exploit digital platforms and emerging technologies.”

The IGP said tackling cyber threats requires proactive strategies, stronger capabilities and partnerships among relevant stakeholders.

“Effective response requires anticipatory strategies, strong cyber capabilities and active digital diplomacy. We must proactively identify threats, build resilient systems and foster partnerships.”

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Police Force commitment to protecting the country’s digital space through intelligence-driven operations, capacity building and public awareness.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, protecting citizens from online fraud, cyber-enabled violence and other threats.”

Persecondnews also reports that the seminar, themed “From Awareness to Activation: Operationalising AI, Cyber and Digital Statecraft for Nigeria’s Foreign Policy,” brings together policymakers, diplomats, security agencies, technology experts and development partners to discuss the future of digital diplomacy.

The event is expected to produce recommendations that will strengthen Nigeria’s digital diplomacy capacity, enhance coordination among stakeholders and position the country to better navigate emerging technological challenges in the global arena.