The impact of cybercrime and cybersecurity on Nigeria's national security

Abstract

The rapid digitisation of the last decade has transformed global interconnectedness but has concurrently birthed challenges like cybercrime. This research delved into Nigeria's cybercrimelandscape, focusing on its implications for national security. With the rise of cybercrime leadingto economic losses of billions, the study aimed to pinpoint sociological and technological drivers, such as unemployment and digital growth, contributing to the menace. Cybercriminal subcultures, like the "Yahoo Boys", have emerged, depicting a societal trust deficit and culturalinclinations towards cyber malfeasance. The research also assessed Nigeria's cybersecurity measures, including the Cybercrime Act 2015. While the Act signifies the nation's resolve, gapsin its enforcement diminish its effectiveness. Moreover, central to Nigeria's digital aspirations,small and medium enterprises emerge as especially vulnerable to cyber threats. As the countrygrapples with this dual challenge of digital growth and cyber vulnerabilities, a multifaceted strategy involving legislation, technology, public engagement, and global collaboration is pivotal. The study underscores the urgency for a collective response involving policymakers, businesses, and citizens to ensure a secure digital future for Nigeria. The findings contribute...