FEDERAL MINISTRY OF JUSTICE
PRESS RELEASE
FG reaffirms commitment to comprehensive legal framework on cybercrime
The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has reaffirmed its commitment and dedication to establishing a comprehensive cybercrime legal framework in Nigeria.
The government gave this assurance during a parliamentary stakeholders retreat on the Cybercrime Legal Framework (CLF) in Nigeria organized by the Federal Ministry of Justice in collaboration with the Council of Europe and the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development Project (Nigeria ID4D) held at Victoria Island, Lagos State.
In her welcome address, the Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba,OON, mni, emphasized the need for technology-neutral, forward-looking legal frameworks that facilitate international cooperation.
She said that Nigeria’s accession to the Budapest convention in July 2022 was a significant show of commitment to strengthening national legal framework to combat cybercrime effectively.
“Arising from the above, the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Price Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, constituted a task team drawn from all relevant stakeholder organizations including the African Union Group of Cybersecurity Experts Group, the United Nations Adhoc Committee on Cybercrime and the Academia. This team has submitted an initial report which forms part of arising matters over these few days”
The Solicitor General who was ably represented by the Director, Public Prosecutions of the Federation. Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar Babadoko, noted that the National Assembly process that produced the 2024 Amendment to the 2015 Cybercrimes Act demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the legal framework in Nigeria and it was a commendable attempt.
According to her, “this underscored the need for further refinement of the current legal framework to bring it in conformity with national, regional and international standards as well as Nigeria’s obligations under relevant international instruments”.
“In light of the above, we are gathered here today to collectively chart a new course, hinged on whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach for an inclusive, effective and robust legal framework on cybercrimes and cybersecurity in Nigeria.
“As we commenced this dialogue today, may we be reminded that developing a comprehensive legal framework on cybercrimes and cybersecurity in Nigeria is an opportunity to set a standard for other States in Africa and beyond”.
In his keynote address, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Dr. Bala Fakandu, emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to reviewing and strengthening its legal framework on cybercrime and cybersecurity.
He highlighted the significant impact of cybercrime on the global economy, with estimated annual losses of over $1 trillion, and on Nigeria’s economy, with estimated annual losses of over $250 billion.
Senator Salisu Shuaib Afolabi, Chairman Senate Committee on ICT & Cybersecurity, in his remarks stressed the importance of international cooperation and knowledge sharing to combat cybercrime effectively.
He pledged the commitment of the National Assembly to partner with various organizations to enhance Nigeria’s national digital governance.
Earlier, the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, represented by Hameed Oyenuga, AG. Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, mentioned the need for a robust legal framework to protect citizens, ensure financial system safety, and safeguard digital economy integrity.
He stated the complex and sophisticated nature of cybercrime, posing significant threats to individuals and governments.
Speaking, the representative of the Council of Europe, Ms. Anastasia Gadja, stated the need for legal framework’s and national strategies to combat cybercrime effectively.
Also in attendance at the programme were members of the National Assembly, representatives of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigerian Data Protection Commission and other stakeholders.
Bala Jummai
For Director, Information and Public Relations
