Nigeria, UK agree to tackle cybercrimes

Nigeria and United Kingdom on Tuesday signed a multilateral Memorandum of Understanding,MoU, to combat cybercrimes and strengthen their criminal justice systems.

At the event in Abuja, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, also inaugurated the Joint Case Team on Cybercrime, JCTC,. He described the initiative as a transformative step in the country’s efforts to eliminate cyber threats.

Fagbemi said the formation of the JCTC was in line with the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended), which requires a unified approach to tackling digital crimes.

“This marks not just the launch of a project but the beginning of a vision rooted in synergy, coordination, and mutual respect among justice institutions,” he stated.

He emphasized that laws alone could not eliminate cybercrime, stressing the importance of equipping and empowering those tasked with interpreting and enforcing them.

“Cybercrime is complex and constantly evolving. Without national collaboration, international cooperation will remain ineffective, and criminals will exploit the gaps,” he added.

On the UK’s part, Minister of State, Mr. David Hanson, expressed support for Nigeria’s drive against cybercrime. He highlighted that the partnership would improve both countries’ capacity to fight fraud and financial crimes, ultimately benefiting their economies.

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“Cybercrime hampers development. The UK is committed to helping Nigeria address this pressing challenge,” Hanson said.

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, represented by Justice Inyang Ekwo, praised the bilateral effort, stating it would significantly enhance the ability to investigate and prosecute digital crimes.

“This is more than a document; it is a joint declaration of intent to confront the global threat of cybercrime,” Tsoho said.

He called on both nations to remain vigilant, as cybercriminals are typically sophisticated and operate across borders.

The newly launched team includes the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrimes Centre, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit, and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons.

Other agencies include the Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Federal Ministry of Justice, and the Federal High Court.

Justice Tsoho expressed hope that the MoU would foster seamless intelligence sharing, joint operations, and effective prosecution strategies between both nations.

NAN