The Central Bank of Nigeria’s proposal to implement the Cybersecurity levy, as outlined in the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) (Amendment) 2024, has sparked a significant debate. This article clarifies the amendments to the CYBERCRIMES (PROHIBITION, PREVENTION, etc.) ACT, 2015, emphasizing the importance of the Cybersecurity levy for national security and economic infrastructure.
The amendments were a collaborative effort between the Senate Committee on National Security & Intelligence, the ICT and Cyber Security Committee, and other stakeholders. The key objective was to address critical gaps in the Act and empower the nation to effectively implement the National Cybersecurity Programme. The proposed Cybersecurity levy is a vital component of this strategy.
The amendments made in 2024 were necessary to demystify the ambiguities in the Principal Act and provide a legal framework for enforcing cybersecurity measures. The need for urgent action in the face of cyber threats against national security and economic infrastructures underscores the importance of implementing the Cybersecurity levy.
It is crucial to fund the security of Nigeria’s Critical National Information Infrastructure, counter-terrorism, and protect digital economic interests. The judicious use of the cybersecurity levy will enhance the nation’s cybersecurity capabilities and safeguard its cyberspace.
Overall, the amendments seek to strengthen national security, bridge funding gaps, and prioritize the National Cybersecurity Programme for a safer cyberspace in Nigeria.