To mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has urged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for protecting themselves and their communities online. The Agency emphasized that cyber safety begins with individual action and that simple steps can make a significant difference.
Speaking on the importance of this year’s campaign, Director, Corporate Communications and Media Relations at NITDA, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, said the Agency is committed to raising national awareness on digital safety.
“Cybersecurity is everyone’s business,” Mrs. Umar stated. “As more Nigerians embrace technology for work, education, and daily living, it is vital that we all adopt safe online habits. A single act of caution, like using strong passwords or verifying a link before clicking, can prevent major data breaches and financial losses. Together, our collective vigilance builds a safer digital nation.”
She noted that this year’s theme, “Cyber Hygiene for a Safer Tomorrow,” underscores the shared responsibility required to build a secure digital future. By protecting themselves, individuals also safeguard their families, workplaces, and the wider online community.
NITDA recommends that Nigerians adopt the following cyber hygiene practices to strengthen their digital safety:
- Use strong and unique passwords for all online accounts.
- Enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of protection.
- Keep devices and applications updated regularly.
- Back up important data frequently.
- Avoid suspicious links or attachments from unknown sources.
- Think carefully before sharing personal or financial information online.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is an annual event observed globally in October to raise public awareness about online safety and the importance of protecting against cyber threats. It is a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors, featuring campaigns and education on topics like phishing, scams, and protecting personal data. The month’s goal is to encourage simple, proactive steps to improve digital security for individuals and organisations.
Some of the key goals and activities include raising awareness; promoting good cyber hygiene; generating discussions; encouraging individual and group actions; and fostering collaboration.
