INEC Holds Cyber Hygiene Workshop Ahead Of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced a two-day Cyber Hygiene Awareness Technical Workshop aimed at strengthening the security of its digital infrastructure ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections.

The workshop, organised under the leadership of INEC chairman, Joash Amupitan, brings together ICT personnel and other key staff of the Commission to deepen their understanding of cyber threats and cybersecurity best practices.

The training is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge on safeguarding election-related technologies deployed by the Commission during electoral processes.

Speaking on behalf of the director of ICT, Dr. Bayode Lawrence, the deputy director, (Communications), Engr. Lawal Umar, said the Commission’s growing investment in digital systems makes strong cyber hygiene practices essential for protecting sensitive data and infrastructure.

Umar explained that cyber hygiene refers to routine preventive practices adopted to safeguard digital systems from vulnerabilities and cyber threats.

According to him, these practices include regularly updating software, avoiding unverified third-party applications, using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, and maintaining regular data backups.

He added that additional security measures such as firewalls, encryption systems and strict access control mechanisms are also necessary to protect the Commission’s digital network.

Umar stressed that continuous training and awareness programmes remain crucial to strengthening staff capacity to prevent and respond effectively to cybersecurity threats.

In a goodwill message, the regional director for Africa and country director for Nigeria at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), Seray Jah, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting credible elections in Nigeria through its partnership with INEC.

Jah also acknowledged the continued support of development partners, particularly the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), noting that the workshop forms part of broader efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and ensure the secure deployment of technology in Nigeria’s electoral process.