The President of the Centre for Cyber Awareness and Development (CECAD), Dr. Bayero Agabi, has issued a compelling appeal for Nigerians to embrace “cyber sanity” and adopt responsible practices in their digital engagements. Speaking at a recent conference in Abuja, he emphasized the urgent need to foster a culture of cyber responsibility across all sectors of Nigerian society.
A Critical Need for Cyber Awareness
In his address, Dr. Agabi highlighted the importance of cultivating awareness and responsibility at every level — from local communities to the federal government. “We must encourage Internet users to take responsibility for their online actions at the local, regional, national, and international levels,” he stated, advocating for increased advocacy and public education initiatives.
His remarks come at a pivotal time as Nigeria’s growing digital footprint exposes the nation to an escalating landscape of cyber threats. From complex hacking attempts and phishing scams to pervasive online harassment, these challenges threaten the safety of individuals, the stability of businesses, and the integrity of Nigeria’s economy.
A Call for Unified Action
Dr. Agabi underscored that achieving “cyber sanity” requires a collective, multi-stakeholder effort. He called on government agencies, private sector players, and civil society organizations to work together in fostering a safer and more responsible online environment.
Key Recommendations for a Safer Digital Nigeria
Among his recommendations, Dr. Agabi emphasized:
- Enhancing cyber awareness campaigns that educate citizens about online dangers and best practices.
- Encouraging responsible digital behavior to mitigate risks and promote respectful, safe online interactions.
- Strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure to better defend against evolving threats.
- Developing robust policies and frameworks that guide safe and responsible digital engagement.
A Strong Urge to Prioritize Cyber Citizenship
In his closing remarks, Dr. Agabi called on Nigeria’s government and the National Assembly to make cyber responsibility a priority at all governance levels. He emphasized that effective communication and sustained advocacy are vital in shaping public attitudes, fostering a culture of responsibility, and ensuring Nigeria’s digital future is secure and resilient.
As Nigeria’s digital landscape continues to expand, this call to action underscores the collective responsibility to promote cyber sanity for a safer, more inclusive, and more responsible cyberspace.
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