Attorney General of the Federation AGF, Lateef Fagbemi, has stated that strengthening cyberspace security requires more than enforcement mechanisms, urging a comprehensive framework that combines legislation, innovation, public awareness, and institutional cooperation. The Attorney General of the Federation AGF is Nigeria chief law officer responsible for legal policy and enforcement oversight.
Speaking at a cybersecurity policy forum in Abuja, Fagbemi emphasized that while prosecution of cyber offenders remains essential, prevention strategies must address systemic vulnerabilities. According to him, Nigeria digital economy is expanding rapidly, making cyberspace protection a matter of national security and economic stability.
Fagbemi noted that enforcement agencies alone cannot secure digital infrastructure. He advocated stronger collaboration between government institutions, private technology firms, financial institutions, and civil society organizations.
Cybercrime in Nigeria ranges from financial fraud and identity theft to ransomware attacks targeting corporate and government databases. Security analysts warn that increased digitization has widened exposure to cross border threats.
He also called for improved digital literacy among citizens, arguing that awareness reduces vulnerability. Many cyber incidents, experts say, result from phishing schemes and weak data protection practices rather than sophisticated breaches.
The AGF stressed that cybersecurity policies must respect constitutional freedoms, particularly freedom of expression and privacy rights. Civil society groups have repeatedly cautioned against heavy handed digital regulation.
Technology specialists at the forum recommended greater investment in encryption standards, artificial intelligence driven monitoring systems, and capacity building for digital forensic units.
As Nigeria positions itself as a regional technology hub, stakeholders agree that cybersecurity strategy must evolve beyond reactive enforcement to proactive resilience building.
