The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced its unwavering commitment to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 in all investigations and prosecutions of cyber offenders.
This significant declaration came from Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the Commandant General of NSCDC, during a comprehensive two-day capacity building workshop focused on combating cybercrime. The event, organized in collaboration with the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN), marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria's fight against digital crime.
Strengthening Nigeria's Digital Defence
Dr. Audi emphasized that the Corps will leave no stone unturned in implementing the Act's provisions to their fullest extent. "The NSCDC is fully committed to leveraging the Cybercrime Act 2015 as a powerful tool in our arsenal against digital criminals," he stated during his address to participants.
The workshop brought together cybersecurity experts, legal professionals, and law enforcement personnel to enhance their understanding of the legal framework governing cybercrime in Nigeria. Participants engaged in intensive training sessions covering digital evidence collection, forensic investigation techniques, and proper prosecution procedures under the Act.
Building Technical Capacity
According to the Commandant General, the capacity building initiative represents a strategic move to equip NSCDC personnel with cutting-edge skills required to tackle evolving cyber threats. "In today's digital age, our officers must be as technologically sophisticated as the criminals we pursue," Dr. Audi remarked.
The training program specifically addressed:
- Legal interpretation of the Cybercrime Act 2015
- Digital forensic investigation methodologies
- Evidence preservation and chain of custody protocols
- Collaboration with international cybersecurity agencies
- Prosecution strategies for successful convictions
A Unified Front Against Cybercrime
The NSCDC's renewed commitment comes at a crucial time when Nigeria faces increasing challenges from cyber criminals targeting individuals, businesses, and government institutions. Dr. Audi stressed that the Corps will work in close coordination with other security agencies and the Office of the National Security Adviser to create a unified front against digital crime.
"We recognize that cybercrime transcends physical borders and requires collaborative efforts across multiple agencies and international partners," the Commandant General added, highlighting the importance of inter-agency cooperation.
Protecting Critical National Infrastructure
As part of its mandate, the NSCDC will focus particularly on safeguarding Nigeria's critical national infrastructure from cyber attacks. This includes power grids, communication networks, financial systems, and other essential services that form the backbone of the nation's economy and security.
The Corps has established specialized cybercrime units across its state commands, equipped with modern technological tools and staffed by personnel who have undergone rigorous training in digital forensics and cyber investigation techniques.
This proactive approach by the NSCDC signals a new era in Nigeria's cybersecurity landscape, where law enforcement agencies are increasingly prioritizing digital crime prevention and developing the technical expertise needed to secure the nation's cyberspace effectively.
