By Abdullahi Danbakaba
The pressing need for strategic and proactive measures by individuals, organizations, and government bodies to effectively combat the growing threats in cyberspace was a key highlight during the 111th Inaugural Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA).
Delivering the lecture titled, “Achieving and Sustaining Victory in the Emerging Cyber Warfare” on August 15, 2024, Prof. John Kolo Alhassan of the Department of Computer Science emphasized that winning the battle against cybercrime requires comprehensive action plans that include robust network monitoring, detection of unauthorized activities, and swift responses to threats.
The Director of the Academic Planning Unit (APU), FUT, Minna, Prof. Alhassan underscored the increasing menace of identity theft, fake bank applications, and fraudulent alerts, often orchestrated via the “Dark Web.” He highlighted essential cybersecurity measures such as password management, two-factor authentication, regular vulnerability assessments, and continuous employee training as critical defenses against these evolving threats.
Prof. Alhassan called on the Federal Government to establish a National Cybercrime Control Centre (NCCC) with sub-control centers in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. He also recommended creating a Dark Web Monitoring Research Centre to keep pace with the rapid advancements in internet technology and emerging cyber warfare tactics.
To bolster public safety, he advocated for widespread awareness campaigns through traditional and social media platforms, alongside the acquisition of advanced cybersecurity surveillance tools. Prof. Alhassan further emphasized that all internet users should stay informed about new cyberattack techniques and implement disaster recovery plans in case of security breaches.
In his closing remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta congratulated Prof. Alhassan for his insightful presentation and commended the audience for their active participation.
Among the distinguished guests at the event were the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, FUT, Minna, Dr. Muhammad Kudu Santuraki, and other council members.
Photo credit: Elijah Yisa