The federal government has officially launched the Joint Task Force on Cybercrime, describing it as a transformative initiative designed to enhance Nigeria’s criminal justice response to the growing threat of cybercrime.
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Abuja, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, noted that the initiative signifies more than just the start of a project; it marks the birth of a vision. “A vision built on collaboration, synergy, and mutual respect among justice institutions,” he said, emphasising that while Nigeria has a legal framework, laws alone are not enough without empowered and coordinated personnel to implement them.
“We also need an effective criminal justice response, which requires seamless cooperation between red bank actors, investigators, and prosecutors.” He added that international cooperation can only be effective if collaboration is constantly being strengthened at the national level.
The minister of state, Home Affairs, UK, Lord David Hanson, who was also present at the event, described the launch as a historic moment for both nations. “It is a deep honor and privilege for myself as the Home Office Minister in the United Kingdom, but also for my colleagues from the National Crime Agency, from the Home Office, and the High Commission to witness this historic signing agreement between the criminal justice agencies in Nigeria to tackle issues important to both our countries,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, represented by the National Programme Official (UNODC) Baranaye Marcus, praised the Joint Case Team as a forward-thinking response to the evolving threats of cybercrime. “Our collective efforts to combat cybercrime are strengthened by the dedication and expertise of law enforcement agencies and the judiciary,” he said, reaffirming UNODC’s support for the initiative and urging continued collaboration to ensure justice and digital resilience.
The Joint Task Force, formed under the Cybercrime Prohibition and Prevention Act of 2015 (as amended), is expected to drive seamless cooperation among investigators, prosecutors, and regulatory agencies.
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