System Concerns: NITDA, CAC Activate Cybersecurity Measures, Direct MDAs To Tighten Controls

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) have activated coordinated cybersecurity measures following concerns affecting aspects of the commission’s digital systems.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Director, Corporate Communications and Media Relations Department of NITDA, Mrs Hadiza Umar, the agencies said they had “activated response and assurance mechanisms in line with national cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard critical infrastructure and maintain service integrity.”

NITDA also directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to adopt proactive cybersecurity measures in compliance with the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (NCPS) 2021.

“The agency directed all MDAs to immediately review and reinforce their cybersecurity architecture to address emerging threats targeting government systems and sensitive data,” the statement said.

As part of the directive, MDAs were required to conduct comprehensive security assessments, remediate identified vulnerabilities, and strengthen access controls across critical platforms.

“They are also expected to enhance data protection mechanisms, maintain effective backup and disaster recovery systems, and improve monitoring capabilities to detect and respond to suspicious activities,” the statement added.

The agencies further emphasised the need for functional incident response frameworks, including prompt reporting of cybersecurity breaches to enable coordinated intervention.

NITDA disclosed that detailed cybersecurity guidelines had already been issued to MDAs for implementation, as part of broader efforts to strengthen resilience across public sector digital infrastructure.

The measures, according to the agency, are aimed at improving the overall security posture of government institutions and ensuring the continued protection of national digital assets.

NITDA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government agencies in safeguarding digital systems and advancing cybersecurity best practices across the public sector.