The National Assembly has taken a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s cyberspace protection, as the Senate and House of Representatives committees on ICT and cybersecurity commenced a joint retreat aimed at enhancing digital literacy among lawmakers and preparing for reforms to the country’s cybersecurity framework.
The retreat, held in Abuja as part of the National Assembly digital summit, was attended by members of both committees and themed ‘Building a future-ready legislative framework: Digital Innovation, safety and economic growth’.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Senator Shuaib Salisu (Ogun Central), stated that the retreat was designed to equip federal lawmakers with the knowledge and skills required to effectively navigate the digital space and promote a safer cyberspace for Nigerians.
Salisu underpinned that cyberspace should not be allowed to become a haven for criminal activities, drawing parallels with ungoverned physical spaces that have been exploited by criminals.
“Members of both committees are gathered here today to upgrade their knowledge and skills on the use of various digital applications for effective and efficient participation in cyberspace, which must not be left open to misuse in the way some parts of our physical space have been taken over by criminals,” he said.
The lawmaker further added that the retreat would also prepare committee members and their secretariat staff members ahead of the planned public hearing on the cybercrime Bill.
According to the lawmaker, strengthening digital competence is essential to developing effective legislation capable of addressing emerging cybersecurity challenges and supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Also speaking, Chairman of the House committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Adedeji Olajide, noted that the retreat aligns with the National Digital Agenda and reflects the legislature’s commitment to keeping pace with the rapid evolution of technology.
The joint retreat forms part of ongoing efforts by the National Assembly to develop a future-ready legislative framework that promotes digital innovation, safeguards cyberspace and supports economic growth.
