Nigeria's NITDA, CAC Activate Cybersecurity Measures Amid System Concerns

In Nigeria, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) have taken decisive steps to bolster cybersecurity defenses. This proactive stance comes in response to growing concerns over data and information system breaches that have impacted various government and private entities, including the CAC itself. The agencies are now activating robust response and assurance mechanisms, aligning with national cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard critical infrastructure and maintain the integrity of essential services.

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all ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) must adopt proactive cybersecurity measures in compliance with the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (NCPS) 2021.

The recent spate of alleged breaches, affecting institutions like Remita Payment Services Limited and Sterling Bank, underscores the urgent need for enhanced digital security. The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is actively investigating these incidents, highlighting the seriousness with which data protection is being treated. NITDA has issued a clear directive to all ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to immediately review and strengthen their cybersecurity architecture, emphasizing compliance with the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (NCPS) 2021.

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In addition, there is the need for functional incident response frameworks, including prompt reporting of cybersecurity breaches for coordinated intervention.

This directive mandates comprehensive security assessments, vulnerability remediation, and reinforced access controls. Furthermore, MDAs are required to improve data protection, maintain effective backup and disaster recovery systems, and enhance monitoring capabilities. The emphasis on functional incident response frameworks and prompt reporting of breaches signals a coordinated effort to build resilience across the public sector's digital infrastructure. NITDA's commitment to supporting these agencies in safeguarding digital systems and promoting best practices is a crucial step in securing Nigeria's national digital assets.

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Detailed cybersecurity guidelines have already been issued to MDAs for implementation as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen resilience across public sector digital infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the CAC has announced scheduled maintenance for its portal from April 17-20, 2026. While this may cause temporary unavailability, it is presented as an effort to improve customer service. This maintenance, occurring concurrently with the broader cybersecurity push, suggests a comprehensive approach to ensuring the reliability and security of government digital platforms.

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To serve you better, we will be carrying out scheduled maintenance on our portal this weekend, from 12:00 midnight today, 17th April 2026, to 6:00 a.m. on Monday, 20th April 2026.