NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
General News

Security: Alia inaugurates civil guards, donates vehicles

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By Emmanuel Antswen

Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue on Saturday launched a 5000-man new security outfit known as the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG).

Alia also unveiled a Joint Security Task Force named “Operation Anyam Nyor” to tackle the security challenges bedevilling the state.
The governor during the ceremony in Makurdi announced the donation of 100 Hilux security vans and 600 special combatant motorcycles for their effective operations.
He assured Benue residents that security remained his top priority, adding that the stability of a community leads to meaningful and sustainable development.
Alia stated that the state made strategic investments aimed at fortifying the capacity of security agencies.
According to him, the goal is to combat criminality and create an environment where people can live and thrive without fear.
He said the BSCPG was established by law to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies in the state by way of synergising and comparing notes.
Alia stated that an additional 5000 guards would be recruited in due course to bring the total to 10,000.
“To further strengthen our security framework, I am pleased to announce the launch of the Operation “Anyam Nyor” Joint Security Task Force.
“This operation represents the largest and most comprehensive security collaboration in the history of our dear state.
“The operation has the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps working together.
“They will deploy personnel across all local government areas in the state.
“This joint effort will ensure that security concerns are not only addressed comprehensively but also decisively,” he said.
The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support to his administration, especially his security efforts.
He also commended the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatyse, and the Catholic Bishop of the Katsina-Ala Diocese, Most Rev. Isaac Dugu, for their dedication to peace-building in the state.
Alia further thanked the officers for responding to the call for service and urged them to always operate in accordance with their mandate.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, said the 19 northern governors would support the Benue security project.
Yahaya said the efforts of the Benue governor were in preparation for the coming of the state police, adding that Benue has taken a step ahead of other states.
Also, the Tiv paramount ruler, Prof. James Ayatse, said the Benue traditional institution would support the security initiatives of the governor.
Ayatse said that the recruitment of 5000 BSCPG was not for political reasons and charged the officers to operate within their set mandate.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by governors, Chairman of APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and other party chieftains.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Peter Amine
Aviation

FG promises advanced digitisation to enhance aviation safety

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development says the Federal Government will advance digitalisation in the aviation sector to enhance safety and security.

Keyamo made this declaration at the inauguration of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Flight Data Centre (FDC) on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to modernising various sectors, moving from analog to more digital and efficient systems.

Keyamo explained that the FDC would help NCAA to regulate more effectively by improving efficiency, saving costs, and enhancing the customer experience within the aviation sector.

“One of our five-point agenda is to improve safety within the sector. This initiative directly contributes to that goal,” Keyamo said.

He emphasised the importance of the FDC in enhancing safety, noting, “This system is not just for handling incidents or serious events; it can be used routinely to track flight patterns, human errors, and mechanical issues during flights.”

Capt. Chris Najomo, the Acting Director-General of NCAA, added that the FDC was a vital part of modern aviation, responsible for collecting, processing, and analysing vast amounts of flight data.

He outlined the key components of the FDC, which include data acquisition, data processing, event detection, and a feedback loop.

Najomo stated that the FDC would help enhance Nigeria’s global credibility by aligning NCAA with international best practices and boosting global confidence in Nigeria’s aviation safety standards.

“As an ICAO Contracting State, Nigeria is obligated to ensure the highest safety standards, and the NCAA’s collaboration with APS Aerospace Corporation supports this effort,” he said.

He further explained that APS Aerospace, with over 100 years of combined experience in Flight Data and Cockpit/ATC Audio Analysis, worked with the NCAA to train selected staff in Flight Data Analysis (FDA) and Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) systems.

“These systems systematically collect, process, and evaluate flight data to identify trends, anomalies, or safety issues, which are crucial for modern aviation safety management systems (SMS)’’.(NAN)

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo and Abiemwense Moru

General News

NOA, stakeholders engage on security, tax reform bills

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By Rita Iliya

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Niger has engaged stakeholders to discuss the nationwide sensitisation on security, tax reform bills and get-rich-quick syndrome.

 

The Director General of NOA, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the meeting was a nationwide sensitisation campaign on five critical issues affecting the nation’s well-being, unity, and development.

 

Issa-Onilu was represented at the meeting on Monday by Mrs Onuoha Uchenna, Assistant Director, Finance and Account of the agency.

 

He said that the campaign focused on World HIV/AIDS day, security awareness, discouraging get-rich-quick syndrome, world human rights day, and tax reform bills.

 

“The challenges before us require collective action and active participation from all Nigerians,” he said.

 

He said the government had intensified efforts to provide free and accessible HIV testing and counselling services nationwide as well as ensure antiretroviral treatment was available and accessible to people living with HIV/AIDS.

 

He added that government has also partnered with local and international organisations to combat stigma and discrimination.

 

On security awareness, Issa-Onilu said the government was strengthening security architecture through better equipment, training, and increased funding for security agencies.

 

He also emphasised the need for citizens to reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and opportunities provided through government initiatives.

 

The NOA boss further explained that the government was implementing reforms to make the tax system fairer and less burdensome for citizens.

 

He called on stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious institutions, civil society organisations, and educational institutions to amplify the messages and extend their reach.

 

In his welcome address, Malam Yahaya Gbongbo, the state Director of NOA, said the agency launched the campaign on Nov. 6 in Niger to make people understand that security was everyone’s business.

 

He noted that NOA’s mandate was to communicate government programmes and policies to the people, adding that the agency was committed to doing that especially at the grassroots.

 

In his remarks, Mr Eze Pampas, Eze Ndigbo of Minna and Chairman, Resident Community Traditional Leaders Association in Niger, lauded NOA for its sensitisation programmes aimed at promoting national development and unity.

 

He attributed the prevalence of get-rich-quick syndrome among Nigerians especially the youths to injustice, corruption, and unemployment in the country.

 

Also Malam Bala Musa, Deputy Director in NOA in Niger, said the issue of tax reform bills has been a contentious issue and urged Nigerians to study the bill and understand its benefits.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Defence/Security

Security: Army advocates more inter-agency collaboration

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By Rita Iliya

The Nigerian Army has stressed the need for synergy among security agencies to combat insecurity in the country and Niger.

 

Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), made the call at the 2024 Joint West Africa Social Activities (WASA) held at the Minna military cantonment.

 

Aligbe said the event provides an opportunity for social activities and showcases the cultural heritage of Nigerians.

 

He commended the troops of TRADOC and 31 Artillery Brigade for their bravery and sacrifices, adding that they successfully conducted all their activities for the training circle for the year 2024.

 

According to him, the success was recorded in spite of the complex security operating environment in Niger.

 

Aligbe expressed optimism that the brigade and units in the state are set to consolidate the operational gains made so far.

 

He acknowledged the efforts of other security agencies, including the 013 Quick Response of the Nigerian Air Force and all other security and intelligence agencies.

 

The commander also lauded the financial and moral support of former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja and the present COAS Lt.-Gen. Femi Oluyede to training, operations, and welfare of personnel.

 

Aligbe described WASA as an annual event that promotes unity and peaceful co-existence among the Nigerian army family.

 

Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Hamidu Bobbo, Commander, 31 Artillery Brigade, commended the troops for their bravery and sacrifices.

 

Bobbo said the army would continue to work towards winning all land battles in defence of the territorial integrity of Nigeria, protecting national interest, and accomplishing tasks in a civil authority.

 

In his remarks, Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger, commended the Nigerian army’s efforts in improving the security situation in the state.

 

Bago, represented by Rtd. Gen. Bello Muhammad, Commissioner for Homeland Security, cited improvements in travel safety, farming activities, and harvests.

 

The governor said WASA had fostered unity and cohesion among the army, and promoting a sense of oneness among Nigerians.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that WASA is an annual event organised by the Nigerian army to celebrate the diverse rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.

 

The event brings together officers, soldiers, and their families in a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate and mark the end of the year’s activities.

 

Highlights of the event included cultural displays, dance performances, and regimental activities by the troops and presentation of awards to officers for their outstanding performance. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Business , Defence/Security

Defence chief, others bag security, emergency management award

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, received the Award of Excellence at the 2024 Security and Emergency Management Award (SEAMA), on Thursday in Abuja.

The event was organised by Emergency Digest, a publication of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), in collaboration with the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC).

The award featured different categories which include, crime prevention, public information management, cybercrimes prevention, emergency management, community service, diligent investigation, civil-military relations among others.

It also includes outstanding crisis communicator;outstanding law enforcement officer; outstanding security officer; outstanding military officer and outstanding; defence journalist and awards of excellence.

In his remarks, Musa emphasised the need for all segments of the society to engage on how best to achieve sustainable national security and emergency management through civil military collaboration.

He said the SAEMA was also an annual event that recognised outstanding contributions to security, emergency management and humanitarian service.

The CDS said the military was making deliberate efforts towards deepening civil military collaboration to enhance national security.

According to him, civil military synergy has impacted significantly on the armed forces operations in the North East and new models are being developed to meet peculiarities in the other geo-political zones across the country.

“Thus, the theme, “Civil – Military Relation for National Security and Stability” is apt and relevant at this critical period of our national existence.

“The threats we face as a country are multi-faceted, ranging from terrorism and insurgency to socio-economic issues and community unrest.

“Arising from these complex dynamics, it has become increasingly evident that no single institution can solve these issues in isolation of others.

“Thus, a whole of society effort that brings together every segment of our nation is needed to build lasting peace, security and progress.

“This can only be achieved by integrating our collective expertise, resources and influence of various stakeholders with a view to creating a resilient framework for both security and emergency management strategies through civil-military relations,” he said.

Musa gave assurance that the military would remain committed to ensuring peace in Nigeria and protecting democracy.

The Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris, represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba-Ndace commended the management of Security Digest for the awards and support for the military and other security agencies.

Idris said the security narrative has continued to change, saying that actions of a single black sheep should not be used to demonise an institution that had continued to make sacrifices for the nation.

“This is the time for us as a country to continue to support our armed forces.

“This war is a people’s war. It is what they first call the war among the people where the enemy is the neighbor who does not wear uniform or some who have double identity.

“So it is a difficult war. It is a war that is in the media space and therefore it is important that the nation will come together and that is why this celebration is very important,” he said.

The Publisher of PRNigeria and other titles, Mallam Yushau Shuaib, said the annual event recognises outstanding gallantry contribution to safety, security and emergency management in Nigeria.

He said the 2024 edition recognised the CDS for his expertise in the vital field of inter-agency collaboration and civil military relations making him the ideal speaker for the occasion.

According to him, the award unit selection process remains rigorous and transparent with their jury that comprises security experts, industry professionals an~d independent observers ensuring that deserving individuals and organisations are recognised for their exceptional achievement. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Aviation

Women in aviation pledge to advance safety, security in aviation sector

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Women in Aviation International, Nigeria Chapter (WIA-N), a non-profit organisation, has pledged to advance safety and security in the aviation industry.

Its President, Nigeria Chapter, Mrs Rejoice Ndudinachi, made the pledge at the 2024 WIA Annual Conference in Abuja on Thursday.

Ndudinachi assured that Women in Aviation would continue to support and do all it takes to ensure safety and security in the aviation industry “and this, we have been doing and will continue to do.

“In every segment of Nigeria’s aviation industry, women are present and have been making a very significant impact, starting from engineering, management, aero- medical, media, regulation, training, meteorology and security to piloting.

“Ever since WIA was established, the level of commitment and dedication to duties by women in aviation has increased and this has contributed significantly to the numerous achievements that the industry has recorded.”

The president said the members would keep gaining knowledge by attending international WIA conferences on constant basis, urging them to support and cooperate.

“Today, we gather once again as a community of pioneers, advocates, and change makers in aviation. Women in Aviation, Nigeria Chapter is a non-profit organisation. It encourages the advancement of women in all aviation career fields and interests.”

She said the vision of the organisation was to promote public awareness of the accomplishments and contributions of women to aviation development.

According to her, the aims of WIA include fostering, promoting and engaging in aviation education, particularly as it relates to WIA.

Others, she said, were to cultivate, foster and promote interest and understanding among the public on the accomplishments and contributions of women in aviation.

“We also aim to encourage the young ones to build up their future in aviation.”

She said WIA-N had established and inaugurated about 17 Aviation Clubs in schools to provide a platform for networking resources and opportunities for women.

“In pursuit of our aims and objectives, we have embarked on public sensitisation programmes, WIA Scholarships, career talks, and other activities to help the young ones to take up a career in aviation.

“For example, Nigeria got the position of first winner and second winner during the September 2024 International girls in aviation day activity raffle draw. The girls made us proud.

“This year, we organised ‘Girls in Aviation Day’  in almost all the airports in Nigeria with the support of aviation agencies, particularly with the support of these beautiful role models and vision achievers in the house,“she said.

She said the organisation  gave handsome gifts to outstanding children to inspire them to pursue careers in aviation.

She said the theme, “Connect, Engage, Inspire“ perfectly encapsulated the essence of the organisation`s mission, vision, and the journey it had embarked.

“As women in aviation, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to inspire. We inspire each other by sharing stories of perseverance, innovation, and leadership.

“We also inspire the younger ones to take up a career in aviation, `she said. (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

General News

Lagos Security Trust Fund postpones 18th Annual Town Hall Meeting

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By Peter Amine

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), has postponed the proposed Town Hall Meeting with Gov. Babatunde Sanwo-Olu earlier scheduled to hold on Thursday, Nov. 28.

A statement by Dr Abdurrazaq Balogun, its Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, said that the meeting, which would focus on security, is now to hold on Dec. 18.

The statement was issued on Tuesday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN), reports that the meeting has “Data & Technology-Driven Security: The way forward”, as its theme.

 

 

Balogun said that the venue of the event – Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos – had also been changed to Lagos House at Ikeja, with the event scheduled to start  at 11 a.m.

“The postponement is due to exigencies beyond our immediate control,” Balogun explained.

He urged invitees and members of the general public to kindly accept the apologies and regretted the inconvenience it might cause.

“We count on your usual support and cooperation as we look forward to the new date,” Balogun said.(NAN)
Edited by Ephraims Sheyin

Defence/Security

IEDs poses major threat to counter-insurgency operations – NCTC boss

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), has said that the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by terrorists poses a threat to counterterrorism operations.

Laka said this on Tuesday, at a two-day Counter Improvised Explosive Device Training for various security agencies and services, organised by the NCTC, in Abuja.

He said that IEDs had become a tool of terror used by insurgents, militants, bandits and criminal elements to destabilise communities, destroy infrastructure and inflict fear and suffering on innocent lives.

According to him, the recent blackout in the Northern part of the country was caused by terrorists that destroyed five power transmission lines using improvised explosive devices.

Laka said the training was part of the planning by the Presidential Communication, Command and Control Centre in preparation for 2024 Crisis Response Exercise, scheduled for Nov. 25 to Nov. 29.

He said the exercise was aimed at empowering security agencies and relevant ministries, departments and agencies on interagency cooperation and coordination using the National Crisis Management Doctrine during national crises.

According to him, the counter IEDs training is to further create a platform for the NCTC  to assess the readiness of participants in countering improvised explosive device procedures and operations.

“It is therefore carefully designed to refresh and sustain the capabilities of explosive ordnance disposal and canon operator on the effective operations of the various counter IEDs equipment at their disposal.

“It is also planned to test the participants’ command and control structures and to ensure that decision making processes are clear, swift and efficient,’’ he said.

The NCTC coordinator urged the participants to be open-minded and engage in a way that would allow them to learn from each other’s expertise.

According to him, this approach will lead to a successful exercise, rapid response and thereafter enhance the national security of our dear country in the long term. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Metro

ASIS International lauds Wike’s commitment to addressing insecurity in FCT

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By Philip Yatai

The world’s largest association for security professionals, ASIS International, has commended the commitment of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in addressing insecurity in the territory.

The Chairman of the Abuja Branch 273, Mr Edward Orim, gave the commendation during the association’s 2024 Annual General Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

Orim, who was re-elected to serve for another year, said that Nigeria has the capacity to adopt the use of technology to strengthen the fight against insecurity.

He, however, added that the absence of political will was a serious challenge to deepening the use of technology to tackle insecurity across the country.

He said that Wike, on the other hand, had in the last one year demonstrated the capacity and the political will to address insecurity and make FCT a great and secured capital city for all.

He said that the minister’s support to security agencies, particularly operational vehicles fitted with latest technology equipment, was a game changer in the fight against insecurity in FCT.

“The FCT Minister is providing the needed support, including technological equipment to strengthen the fight against insecurity with a view to keeping residents of FCT safe,” he said.

He added that Mr Adamu Gwary, Director, FCT Administration’s Security Services Department, was presented with a Certificate of Excellence, in recognition of his support and contributions to the growth of ASIS International in Abuja.

The chairman said that the association would be looking forward to a stronger partnership with the FCTA to improve security in the nation’s capital.

He said that the association has made significant strides in Nigeria’s security sector through impactful initiatives and strategic outreach in 2024.

“The chapter also advanced professional development through its Women in Security webinar, which strengthened engagement among security professionals.

“In line with ASIS International commitment to humanitarian efforts and gender inclusion, Women in Security provided aid to flood victims in Borno State and championed career growth for women on the International Day of the Girl Child.

“For the next one year, we will be looking forward to deepening the use of technology in addressing insecurity, through collaboration and partnership with critical stakeholders,” he said.

Responding, Gwary thanked the association for the recognition, adding that the FCTA was open to more collaboration to strengthen the FCT’s security framework.

Gwari, who was represented by Dr Peter Olumuji, Secretary, FCTA’s Command and Control Centre, noted that in a global community, security was everybody’s responsibility.

“We are happy that ASIS is contributing to addressing insecurity in the FCT.

“The FCT minister has established a robust and standard Command and Control Centre in the territory to respond effectively to security threats.

“The control system will be equipped with the latest and necessary technology to fight insecurity,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that also elected was Mr Jacob Akinola as Vice Chairman, Amos Itodo as Secretary and Ms Jane Wilson as Treasurer. (NAN)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal

Defence/Security

U.S. Embassy urges FG to harness technology to strengthen Nigeria’s security

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By Philip Yatai

The United States Embassy, Abuja, has urged the Federal Government to harness the power of technology to strengthen its security framework and build a safer, more resilient Nigeria.

Mr Bradley Markwald, the embassy’s Senior Regional Security Officer, gave the advice at the 2024 Annual General Meeting of ASIS International, Chapter 273, in Abuja, on Tuesday.

The security expert spoke on the topic, “Leveraging Technology for Enhancing National Security in Nigeria.”

Markwald noted that with Nigeria’s vast population, rich resources, and extensive geographic expanse, safeguarding national security presents both complex challenges and unique opportunities.

He described advancing surveillance and monitoring as “critical transformative ways” which technologies could serve Nigeria’s national security goals.

“By incorporating satellite-based imagery from platforms like the NigeriaSat-X and the European Space Agency’s Copernicus programme, we can monitor vast swathes of land, borders, and critical infrastructure in real time.

“Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), equipped with thermal imaging and Al-powered tracking software, can be deployed for surveillance in remote areas, providing intelligence on movements and activities of potential security threats.

“The integration of sensor networks along Nigeria’s borders, highways, and ports could offer a proactive approach to security by detecting unusual activity such as unauthorized vehicle movements or crossing of borders in real time,” Markwald said.

He added that technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) sensors could alert authorities to possible incursions or natural disasters that may threaten national security.

These tools, according to him, will not only enhance defensive posture but also help keep Nigerian citizens and businesses safer by enabling timely interventions.

The security expert also called for the modernisation of border control, adding that effective border control was an essential part of Nigeria’s national security strategy and technology could significantly improve this area.

He said that by adopting advanced electronic border systems, Nigeria could enhance the accuracy of border checks and reduce the risks associated with human error.

“Biometric technologies such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning used in systems like the Advanced Passenger Information Systems (APIS) can quickly verify identities, ensuring that only authorized individuals enter or leave the country.

“Automated Border Control (ABC) gates, already in use in airports around the world, can help streamline this process, making border control both secure and efficient.

“In addition, the use of Smart Border Management Systems, which combine biometric data with real-time tracking of individuals and vehicles at the border, would significantly enhance the ability to manage immigration and trade flows without compromising security,” he said.

Markwald said that the United Arab Emirates had  implemented an eGate system that employs facial and fingerprint recognition to streamline immigration while enhancing security.

He added that for Nigeria, adopting cost-effective solutions like Suprema ID’s BioMini Slim 3 fingerprint scanners could make a significant difference.

“These portable devices offer high speed authentication and are durable enough for use in various environments.

“By implementing such biometric technologies, Nigeria can reduce wait times at border crossings, minimize human error, and prevent unauthorised entries.

“This will not only strengthen border management but also enhance the overall efficiency of border security operations,” he said.

The senior regional security officer, equally stressed the need to strengthen cybersecurity and cyber resilience, adding that in today’s digital world, cybersecurity was essential to national security.

According to him, protecting sensitive data, critical infrastructure, and digital systems from cyber threats must be a top priority.

“Advanced encryption protocols like AES-256 encryption and quantum cryptography are essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s most sensitive government and corporate data.

“Technologies such as Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and Al-powered anomaly detection can identify and mitigate cyberattacks in real time, protecting Nigeria’s key infrastructure from digital threats.

“Moreover, Nigeria can invest in a robust cyber defense infrastructure that includes state-of-the-art Security Operations Centers (SOC), empowered with the latest Al-driven solutions for detecting and responding to cybersecurity threats and equipped with the latest tools for real-time monitoring and incident response.

“The National Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT) can adopt advanced cyber defense systems such as FireEye’s Network Security and Forensics, which provide real-time threat detection and response capabilities.”

He further called for enhanced intelligence sharing and collaboration, improving crisis management and incident response

“The commitment to adopting and investing in these technologies will help Nigeria better protect its citizens, safeguard critical infrastructure, and secure the nation’s future.

“Together, let us work to leverage these advancements to create a safer Nigeria for generations to come,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

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