Ensuring cybersecurity in Nigeria: The crucial role of cloud security

By Joseph O. Udofia

As the government of Nigeria, ably led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to embrace digital transformation and adopt cloud-based technologies across different sectors, the importance of robust cloud security measures cannot be overstated. In a period marked with increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks, with the FG reporting that more than 12 million cyber attacks were recorded during the just-concluded Presidential and National Assembly election; safeguarding sensitive government and consumer data, and protecting national interests have become the utmost priority.

In light of the work done by the previous administration of Muhammadu Buhari, in fortifying Nigeria’s cybersecurity landscape and fostering a digital future, cloud security remains an integral element. The Nigerian government, recognizing the significance of cloud security, has been proactive in promoting initiatives that address cyber threats and protect critical infrastructure, as contained in the National Cloud Computing Policy of 2019.

Indeed, genuine efforts are ongoing to enhance the nation’s cybersecurity capabilities, enforce data protection regulations, prevent data exfiltration and collaborate with stakeholders to develop a secure ecosystem. The role of Cloud security professionals, who possess the required knowledge and expertise needed to combat evolving cyber threats is integral to the development of the nation.

Nigeria needs to step up investment in Cloud Security. Starting off with Cloud Security professionals, who would possess comprehensive knowledge of cloud infrastructure, data privacy, data protection and data encryption techniques, identifying vulnerabilities, implementing security protocols, and ensuring regulatory compliance. This will ensure that the country is a step ahead in curbing malware and ransomware attacks, phishing attacks, and data breaches. 

The role of cloud security professionals becomes more vital as Nigeria makes giant strides in e-Commerce, banking and financial services, healthcare, and e-governance. These sectors handle substantial amounts of sensitive data, making them targets for cyber-attack. The expertise of cloud security experts helps ensure the defenses of the highlighted sectors, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information.

With government and small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) retaining consumer and other sensitive data in the cloud, the cost of data breaches is of immense economic impact. While a huge crop of Tech professionals leave the country in droves, it is expedient that the country invests and retains its top talents, in a bid to protect not only the digital economy but the country’s economy as a whole. 

In addition, protecting and investing in critical infrastructure is essential for the growth and security of Nigeria. Cloud security plays a crucial role in safeguarding critical infrastructure –  Crude oil (utility) systems, Power grids, transportation systems, financial systems, communication networks, and other industrial systems.

Adopting stringent security measures, such as continuous monitoring, threat detection, and business continuity/incident response capabilities, Nigeria can position itself to be a step ahead of cyber-attacks and ensure the resilience of critical national infrastructure services. Not forgetting that secure cloud solutions enable efficient data sharing between security agencies, adequate information exchange and coordination will assist in combating threats like kidnapping, banditry, and cybercrime. By implementing these robust security controls, Nigeria can prevent data breaches, financial fraud, and identity theft, thereby creating a secure environment for e-commerce, online banking, and digital payments. Trust in the digital economy drives investments, promotes innovation, and catalyzes economic development, positioning Nigeria as a force to reckon with in the league of nations.

As Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey, cloud security must remain a top priority. Continued investments in cloud security infrastructure, talent development and retention, and development/revision of regulatory frameworks are essential for building a secure and resilient digital ecosystem.

Driving public-private collaboration, while also leveraging international connections, will go a long way in ensuring a robust defence against cybercriminals.  Proactive efforts from the Nigerian government, combined with the expertise of cloud security professionals, will go a long way in securing a prosperous digital future, bolstering Nigeria’s cybersecurity defenses and protecting national interests.