By Brown Chimezie
.ng Academy has reinforced its dedication to bolstering digital expertise and the nation’s cyber security defence.
The academy was established as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) and has unveiled a training programme aimed at empowering security agencies with an in-depth comprehension of the fundamentals of the internet and cyber security. The initiative was designed to equip security professionals with the required knowledge and skills, to effectively address the constantly evolving cyber threat landscape.
.ng Academy, well-known for its dedication to exceptional technology education, has taken an active role in advancing and fostering a sustainable digital economy in Africa. With a focus on equipping the continent with essential digital technology skills, the academy conducted a three-day training programme from July 25 – 27, 2023.
This joint initiative, organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA), through its .ng Academy, is specifically tailored to meet the needs of security agencies in Nigeria, given their crucial role in safeguarding the nation against cyber threats and attacks.
High-ranking officials from various security agencies, including EFCC, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Security & Civil Defence Corps, Code of Conduct Bureau, Department of State Security, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, participated in the three-day programme. Their presence reflected a strong desire to elevate their expertise in protecting Nigeria’s digital space.
Throughout the event, the experienced facilitators shared insights into combating cyber threats. Their presence not only enriched the training, but, also, provided an opportunity for security agencies to establish valuable networks within the industry.
Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of the NiRA President, Mr. Muhammed Rudman, the lead facilitator, and immediate past president of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), as well as the CEO of Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) expressed NiRA’s commitment to collaborating with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to train law enforcement professionals.
NiRA President, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya emphasised that the association’s primary objective is to empower security agencies with the necessary knowledge and expertise to safeguard the nation’s critical assets from cyber threats effectively. By equipping professionals with cutting-edge skills, the academy, in collaboration with EFCC, would establish a robust line of defence against cyber adversaries. He also highlighted the importance of creating a cohesive security ecosystem, as the academy, in collaboration with the EFCC training programme, aims to bring together key stakeholders from both the private sector and the government to foster collaboration, address cyber security challenges, and offer capacity-building initiatives for the benefit of all parties.