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Partnership to enhance cybersecurity training, critical infrastructure protection, and public awareness in Nigeria.
Deal signed inside Expo Hall of GITEX NIGERIA – Lagos
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kaspersky. This is a landmark move to reinforce Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem working closely with the global leader in cybersecurity solutions.
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The agreement, sealed on the sidelines of GITEX Nigeria 2025 in Lagos, marks a decisive step toward safeguarding Nigeria’s digital economy. Also, it will ensure protecting critical national infrastructure, and equipping citizens with the skills needed to combat cyber threats.
Cybersecurity Starts with People
Speaking at the signing, NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, underscored that human capacity is the cornerstone of effective cybersecurity.
“Over 95% of cyber breaches stem from human error. Our first line of defense must be the people. We need to build talent, raise awareness, and ensure digital fluency. This MoU is not just a formality, it is a springboard for action,” Abdullahi said.
He added that while many MoUs remain symbolic, NITDA is committed to measurable implementation, having already commenced preliminary work with Kaspersky.
Scope of the MoU
The NITDA–Kaspersky partnership will focus on:
- Cybersecurity training and capacity building for Nigerians.
- Public awareness campaigns to promote safe digital practices.
- Protection of critical national infrastructure from cyberattacks.
- Threat intelligence sharing to monitor and respond to emerging cyber threats.
- Support for cybersecurity policy frameworks to align with Nigeria’s SRAP 2.0 pillar five: Strengthen Cybersecurity and Enhance Digital Trust.
Through this collaboration, Kaspersky will provide technical expertise, data feeds, and policy guidance to help Nigeria strengthen its national cybersecurity standards.
Kaspersky’s Commitment to Nigeria’s Digital Future
Chris Norton, General Manager of Kaspersky Africa, praised Nigeria’s digital potential, stressing the importance of skills over aid.
“Africa doesn’t need charity, it needs skills. Through partnerships like this, we can accelerate value creation for communities and governments. This is just the beginning of a bigger journey to secure Nigeria’s digital future.”
He confirmed Kaspersky’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem. Also, he noted that the company will become a supporting member of the Nigerian Computer Society (NCS).
Strengthening Nigeria’s Digital Economy
The partnership supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration by enhancing national security and promoting a safer digital economy. It also aligns with the government’s ambition to transform Nigeria into a leading digital innovation hub in Africa.
The signing builds on earlier groundwork laid at GITEX Africa 2024 in Morocco and complements Kaspersky’s previous collaborations with Nigerian institutions such as SMEDAN.
A Safer Digital Future for Nigeria
With cybercrime posing increasing risks to businesses, citizens, and government systems, the NITDA–Kaspersky MoU is expected to serve as a turning point for Nigeria’s cybersecurity readiness.
The joint focus on capacity building, threat intelligence, and digital trust will not only protect Nigeria’s digital economy but also empower local ICT companies to innovate in the fast-growing cybersecurity space.
“This partnership is about impact, not paperwork. We are building a resilient, secure, and trusted digital Nigeria,” Abdullahi affirmed.
