Experts call for enhanced cybersecurity infrastructure, education in Delta

By Christopher Odamah

With the growing application of information and communication technology in governance, experts have called for a comprehensive and strong cybersecurity policy and legislation to protect critical infrastructure and personal data and such policy should align with state cybersecurity policies with national and international standards.

The envisaged policy should address critical issues such as safeguarding critical infrastructure, including power grids, water systems, and transportation networks as vital assets.

This was adopted in a communique at a one-day Delta State Cyber Security Summit last week in Asaba. Organised by the office of the Delta State Webmaster in partnership with Upgraded Era Solutions Limited and the National Cyber Security Center under the auspices of the Inspector General of Police, it is the first ever Cyber Security Summit in line with His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State M.O.R.E Agenda, (E stands for Enhanced Peace and Security) with a promise to do more for all Deltans.

The summit also called for the adoption of strategies to explore the latest cyber threats and vulnerabilities, such as ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and data breaches, and how to mitigate the risks.

According to exerts at the summit, Delta State should as a matter of priority establish a Cybersecurity Centre and invest in training programmes to equip officers with the requisite skills and tools to handle evolving cyber threats effectively.

It also recommended that the Delta State Government should implement robust cybersecurity policies and frameworks to protect critical infrastructure and digital assets.

It also recommended youth engagement and the establishment of a Delta State Cybersecurity Task Force to ensure sustained collaboration among all stakeholders.

The summit addressed the shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals and the importance of investing in cybersecurity education and training programs to develop a robust cybersecurity workforce.

According to the communique, “Participants explored the latest cyber threats and vulnerabilities, such as ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and data breaches, and discussed strategies to mitigate these risks.

The Delta State Cybersecurity Summit unites government, law enforcement, and private organizations in addressing pressing cybersecurity challenges; to provide a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share experiences and develop actionable strategies towards enhancing the state’s cybersecurity posture and also to strengthen the cybersecurity defenses and protect its digital assets.

Notable Security Agencies present at the event were NSCDC, Correctional Services, NDLEA, Nigerian Police, State Security Service (SSS) as well as Operation Delta Hawk.

Also in attendance attendance were top government officials,including officials from the office of the Accountant General of the State, Ministries of Economic Planning, Commissioner of Science and Technology, Information as well as Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Director General of Security, State of Orientation Bureau, Executive Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Executive Assistant Media, Executive Assistant Security and many other media aides to the Governor.

Members of Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) and civil society organizations were also represented.