NITDA, Kaspersky Sign MoU to Strengthen Nigeria’s Cybersecurity Framework
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has entered into a strategic partnership with global cybersecurity firm, Kaspersky, in a move aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and strengthening national security.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on the sidelines of GITEX Nigeria in Lagos, and is anchored on pillar five of NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), which focuses on strengthening cybersecurity and enhancing digital trust.
It also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises national security for peace and prosperity.
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Speaking at the signing, NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, reiterated the human factor as the weakest link in cybersecurity.
“More than 95 percent of cyber breaches are caused by human error. Our first line of defence must be the people. This MoU is not just a formality—it is a springboard for action,” he said.
Inuwa noted that while MoUs often attract publicity, NITDA is determined to ensure tangible results.
“We have already started working with Kaspersky even before this signing. For us, it is about impact, not paperwork. We want the media and the public to hold us accountable for delivering on this partnership,” he added.
He further explained that the collaboration would cover a broad spectrum of cybersecurity concerns, ranging from safe smartphone usage for children and the elderly to protecting critical national infrastructure.
On his part, the General Manager of Kaspersky Africa, Chris Norton, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s digital potential, describing the country as a critical hub for Africa’s tech growth.
“Africa doesn’t need charity; it needs skills. Through public-private partnerships like this, we can accelerate value creation for communities and governments,” he said.
Norton revealed that Kaspersky would also become a supporting member of the Nigerian Computer Society as part of its commitment to Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
“This is the first step in a direction that I believe will lead to far bigger things for the Nigerian people and government. We are excited to build a safer digital future together,” he noted.
The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including cybersecurity training and capacity building, public awareness campaigns, information sharing, and the protection of critical infrastructure.
Both parties also agreed to exchange threat intelligence and data feeds related to cyberattacks, while Kaspersky will provide technical advice on cybersecurity frameworks and standards.
The signing ceremony ended with a pledge from both sides to move swiftly into implementation, prioritising proactive measures to counter emerging threats and ensure Nigeria’s resilience in the digital age.
The deal builds on discussions initiated at GITEX Africa in Marrakech, Morocco, and follows similar agreements Kaspersky has signed with Nigerian institutions such as the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).
