NDPC Reports 1,500 Cyberattack Attempts in Nigeria

The National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), led by Dr. Vincent Olatunji, recorded 1,500 cyberattack attempts within a short period, prompting a temporary shutdown of the commission's network. This situation underscores critical gaps in Nigeria's data protection ecosystem.

Olatunji noted that cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, necessitating organizations to adopt proactive security measures and monitor systems continuously. He pointed out a significant shortage of qualified data protection officers, which leaves organizations vulnerable to breaches.

The Nigeria Data Protection Act mandates organizations to engage data protection officers, creating a growing demand for certified professionals. Olatunji also mentioned the notable growth of public-private partnerships in the sector, generating around N7 billion in government revenue from fees and fines.

He cautioned organizations against paying ransoms and stressed the importance of effective strategies to prevent breaches. Dr. Taiwo Oyeley emphasized the need for training to bridge existing awareness and capacity gaps, while Mr. Wole Jacob called for stronger collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency to address emerging cyber threats.