 to take urgent steps to digitalize the civil service for better operational efficiency and security.){kind=link}
An expert in data privacy and protection, Dr. Gabriel Akinremi, has called on the Federal Government (FG) to take urgent steps to digitalize the civil service for better operational efficiency and security.
Speaking on the growing digital transformation within Nigerian ministries, Akinremi noted the importance of modernizing systems and processes to improve service delivery while safeguarding against rising cybersecurity threats.
As Nigeria increasingly shifts its ministries and public agencies to digital platforms, the risk of cyberattacks is escalating.
A recent breach in December 2024 involving the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) exposed vulnerabilities in the country’s digital infrastructure, with the potential manipulation of sensitive national data.
According to reports, Nigeria ranks 11th globally for the frequency of cyberattacks targeting government entities, highlighting the urgency of implementing robust cybersecurity measures.
Akinremi stressed the need for a comprehensive digital transformation strategy that integrates secure technologies into government systems.
He emphasized the importance of digital hygiene, such as strong password protocols, two-factor authentication, and up-to-date software, to mitigate threats like ransomware, phishing, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks.
Despite existing regulations such as the National Cybersecurity Policy and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, the expert lamented that enforcement is often inconsistent, leaving ministries vulnerable to breaches.
“The digitalization of public service should go hand-in-hand with stronger cybersecurity frameworks,” Akinremi stated.
He recommended that the government invest more in cybersecurity training for civil servants, establish dedicated cybersecurity units, and allocate more resources to secure infrastructure, ensuring that ministries remain resilient against evolving cyber threats.
The call comes at a critical time as Nigerian ministries continue to face challenges, including inadequate funding for cybersecurity infrastructure and lack of awareness among staff.
By embracing digitalization with a focus on cybersecurity, Akinremi believed the government can not only enhance service delivery but also protect sensitive national data and foster public trust in digital governance.