As cyber threats continue to rise in the country, a university don of the Department of Computer Science, Federal University of Technology, FUT, Minna, Prof. John Kolo Alhassan has called on the Federal Government to set up a National Cybercrime Control Centre (NCCC) with sub-control centres in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Prof Alhassan made this call during the presentation of the 111th inaugural lecture of FUT Minna at the Gidan-Kwano campus along Minna-Bida road.
He argued that establishing the centre would help to keep pace with the rapid advancements in internet technology and emerging cyber warfare tactics
“We recommend the creation of a Dark Web Monitoring Research Centre to keep pace with the rapid advancements in internet technology and emerging cyber warfare tactics, ” he noted.
He explained that winning the battle against cybercrime requires comprehensive action plans that include robust network monitoring, detection of unauthorized activities, and swift responses to threats.
Decrying the situation, Prof Alhassan underscored the increasing menace of identity theft, fake bank applications, and fraudulent alerts.
According to him, these are often orchestrated via the “Dark Web.”
He highlighted essential cybersecurity measures such as password management, two-factor authentication, regular vulnerability assessments, and continuous employee training as critical defences against these evolving threats”.
Against this background, he urged Governments, private organizations and individuals to adopt proactive strategies and measures to strengthen cybersecurity and safeguard against the increasing dangers in cyberspace in the country.
“Also, to bolster public safety, there is a need for widespread awareness campaigns through traditional and social media platforms, alongside the acquisition of advanced cybersecurity surveillance tools, ” Prof. Alhassan stated.
He further urged all internet users to stay informed about new cyber attack techniques and implement disaster recovery plans in case of security breaches.
The Vice-Chancellor Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta in his remarks commended Prof. Alhassan for his insightful presentation and commended the audience for their active participation.