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Nigeria Moves to Boost Cyber Trust with New Digital Trustmark Seal
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced plans to launch the Nigerian Digital Trustmark Seal, an initiative designed to build trust, transparency, and confidence in the nation’s digital ecosystem.
The new programme forms part of the Presidential priority on strengthening national security, with a focus on cybersecurity measures that protect Nigeria’s digital infrastructure while promoting peace and economic prosperity.
The announcement was made at a press conference commemorating Cybersecurity Awareness Month, attended by representatives from the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the media, and key digital economy stakeholders.
Building a Trusted and Transparent Digital Economy
Speaking during the event, NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, emphasized that the Digital Trustmark Seal is part of the government’s mission to strengthen cybersecurity, protect citizens, and promote a trustworthy digital economy.
“The digital economy has been Nigeria’s fastest-growing sector for nearly five years, surpassing oil and gas in GDP contribution. However, as we digitise, challenges emerge. Technology is a double-edged sword—while good actors use it to drive efficiency, bad actors exploit it to erode public trust,” Abdullahi said.
Developed collaboratively by NITDA, NACCIMA, and GIZ, the Trustmark Seal will verify the authenticity of online businesses, platforms, and organisations, thereby protecting consumers from fraudulent and cloned websites.
“It’s an initiative designed to build trust within our digital ecosystem, where every company, e-commerce platform, and government organisation will have a Trustmark seal on their website to ensure authenticity,” Abdullahi explained.
Strengthening National Security Through Cyber Confidence
The Digital Trustmark Seal will serve as a visible badge of authenticity, allowing citizens to easily identify legitimate websites and avoid cyber scams or phishing attacks.
By verifying the legitimacy of online platforms, the seal will boost public confidence, encourage e-commerce growth, and enhance Nigeria’s global digital reputation.
Abdullahi noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes transparency, inclusivity, and good governance in the digital space.
“This initiative encourages collaboration between the public and private sectors to make Nigeria’s digital environment safer and more trustworthy,” he said.
Public-Private Collaboration for Cybersecurity Success
The NITDA DG stressed that private sector collaboration is crucial for the success of the Trustmark project.
“The private sector drives adoption. This seal will help them build stronger reputations and improve customer confidence,” he added.
Representing NACCIMA, Mr. Suleiman Adebayo Audu commended NITDA and GIZ for initiating what he described as “a timely and impactful effort.”
“This seal will help restore credibility and make Nigerian SMEs more competitive globally. NACCIMA will sensitise members and support them through the verification process,” Audu stated.
Mr. Chinedu Albert, a consultant with GIZ, added that the initiative aligns with GIZ’s mission to promote safe, inclusive, and transparent digital ecosystems across Africa.
“Trust is the foundation of every digital transaction. Our role is to ensure the seal benefits all, including women-led businesses and startups,” he said.
Enhancing Cyber Resilience and Global Reputation
Dr. Mohammed Lawan, Director of NITDA’s Cybersecurity Department, described the project as a milestone in building a robust digital trust infrastructure.
“Trust is the currency of the digital economy. This seal will serve as a verifiable digital signature, reducing fraud and enhancing Nigeria’s global reputation,” he stated.
He announced that NITDA will roll out stakeholder engagements, capacity-building workshops, and nationwide sensitisation campaigns to drive adoption of the Digital Trustmark Seal.
Abdullahi concluded by urging the media to play an active role in educating citizens, amplifying awareness, and reshaping Nigeria’s digital image on the global stage.
