Expert Urges Federal Government to Prioritise Investment in Cybersecurity
A leading cybersecurity expert has urged the Federal Government to place cybersecurity at the heart of Nigeria’s national security framework and economic resilience, warning that the country’s critical infrastructure, businesses, and defence systems remain vulnerable without sustained investment in practical cyber protection.
Speaking during a recent high-level live hacking conference in Lagos, the Lead Consultant and Director of Technical Services at Cybergon Limited, Benedict Ugwuja, stressed that cybersecurity is no longer optional but a strategic necessity in an era where warfare, crime, and economic sabotage increasingly occur in cyberspace.
Cyber Threats Now a National Security Issue
Ugwuja noted that modern security threats have evolved beyond physical battlefields, with cyber attacks now capable of crippling government systems, financial institutions, and critical national assets. According to him, countries that invest heavily in cyber capabilities enjoy strategic advantages, while those that neglect it expose themselves to both internal and external risks.
“You cannot protect what you cannot see,” Ugwuja said, emphasising that hands-on cybersecurity testing is far more effective than theoretical compliance alone. He explained that assets such as drones, communication terminals, ships, and other sensitive infrastructure could be compromised through cyber intrusion if not adequately secured.
Akahi News gathered that the conference, themed “The Last Data Breach”, was designed to demonstrate real-world cyber threats, practical defence strategies, and compliance requirements under the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).
Live Demonstrations Expose System Vulnerabilities
A major highlight of the event was a series of live, real-time hacking demonstrations conducted by Ugwuja and his technical team. These simulations showed how organisations could be breached in practical scenarios, how attackers exploit vulnerabilities, and the immediate steps required to neutralise threats.
The demonstrations covered threat intelligence support, rapid defensive responses, and practical guidance on aligning systems with NDPA regulations. Participants were shown how hackers could slow down business operations, disrupt networks, or even hijack entire systems if proactive security measures were not in place.
Akahi News learnt that the event attracted strong participation from the military, security agencies, financial institutions, and other public and private sector organisations, underscoring the growing recognition of cybersecurity as a national priority.
Call for Government Funding and Private Sector Collaboration
Ugwuja called on the Federal Government to significantly increase funding for practical cybersecurity initiatives, particularly those that focus on real-life testing and capacity building. He argued that military and defence intelligence institutions must move beyond basic awareness to embrace advanced, offensive and defensive cybersecurity capabilities.
He also stressed the importance of deeper collaboration between government agencies and private-sector cybersecurity organisations, noting that such partnerships reflect global best practices. According to him, non-state actors and terrorist groups already possess advanced technical knowledge, making it imperative for Nigeria to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Street Hacking Initiative Expands Public Awareness
Another key feature of the programme was the launch of Cybergon’s Street Hacking initiative—an awareness-driven campaign aimed at bringing ethical hacking demonstrations directly to the public. The initiative seeks to help citizens and businesses understand how cyber attacks occur and how they can protect themselves.
Over 320 participants reportedly benefited from hands-on vulnerability assessments, instant fixes, and practical cybersecurity guidance across locations in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Businesses and members of the public expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as a rare opportunity to experience cybersecurity beyond theory.
Participants were trained to detect malware, identify breached data, and uncover system weaknesses, aligning with Ugwuja’s long-standing advocacy for practical skill development rather than classroom-only instruction.
Building Local Capacity for a Secure Digital Future
Ugwuja further revealed that Cybergon has developed locally manufactured cybersecurity tools and maintains partnerships with global intelligence and defence organisations, positioning it to support both government and private institutions.
While noting that some vulnerabilities remain classified for security reasons, he maintained that developing offensive cybersecurity capabilities is essential to strengthening national defence and protecting the broader economy.
“Almost every business today depends on cyberspace,” Ugwuja said, warning that failure to secure digital systems could have far-reaching economic consequences beyond individual organisations.
He concluded by reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to advancing practical cybersecurity, data protection, and national resilience, describing these efforts as critical to Nigeria’s quest for a secure and sustainable digital future.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
🎓 Attend 2026 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.
