FG to Boost Cybersecurity With New Council As NDPC Probes Data Breach

The Federal Government is taking steps to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework by proposing the creation of a Cybersecurity Coordination Council.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the council will bring together government agencies, private companies, and other stakeholders to enhance the nation’s ability to respond to cyber threats.

“Cybersecurity is a shared national responsibility,” Tijani said, stressing that protecting Nigeria’s digital economy requires partnerships, trust, and collective vigilance across government, industry, and civil society. He added that coordinated efforts will improve early threat detection, effective response, and the development of a resilient digital ecosystem.

He urged stakeholders to contribute to a sustainable, partnership-led cybersecurity model designed to deter cybercrime and protect citizens, businesses, and critical national infrastructure.

In a parallel move, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has launched an investigation into a suspected data breach involving Remita Payment Services Limited, Sterling Bank, and other organisations.

Babatunde Bamigboye, Head of Legal, Enforcement and Regulations at NDPC, said notices of investigation were issued on April 1, 2026, and relevant parties are cooperating by providing information.

The NDPC is examining the type of personal data involved, the scope of the alleged breach, risks to affected individuals, and whether sufficient mitigation measures have been taken.

NDPC National Commissioner, Vincent Olatunji, also directed that all organisations using digital payment systems be reviewed to ensure compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, and to safeguard the integrity of the country’s digital ecosystem.