In a strategic move to bolster Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, the Federal Government has announced plans to establish a cutting-edge cybersecurity and broadband laboratory in collaboration with multinational cybersecurity firm Cisco.
The news was revealed by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, on X (formerly Twitter) following an inspection of the proposed facility. However, the specific location of the lab has not yet been disclosed.
Minister Tijani stated that the government and Cisco have been in discussions regarding the implementation of this initiative.
“This is a result of ongoing conversations over the last few months, and most recently on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York, where they reaffirmed their commitment to support our digital transformation initiatives on varying fronts,” he noted.
The laboratory will focus on enhancing cybersecurity capabilities and expanding broadband infrastructure, forming part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to improve its digital economy. Tijani disclosed that Cisco has committed significant resources towards the project and is working closely with the ministry.
He also praised Cisco’s senior leadership for their roles in facilitating the partnership, including Executive Vice President and Chief People, Policy, and Purpose Officer Francine Katsoudas and Senior Vice President and Global Innovation Officer Dr. Guy Diedrich.
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In May, a Memorandum of Understanding centered on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smart agriculture was signed between Cisco and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
The collaboration aims to achieve several key objectives, including repurposing the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics to create an AI and cybersecurity experience and incubation center, establishing a broadband innovation center, setting up a smart agriculture demonstration farm, designing technology learning hubs, and incubating defense technology solutions.
This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, which seeks to position the country as a leader in Africa’s digital economy by enhancing digital skills, infrastructure, and cybersecurity resilience.
The establishment of the lab is a significant step toward advancing Nigeria’s digital landscape and ensuring a secure online environment for its citizens.
