NBS Allocates ₦35m for Cybersecurity Training Following Website Hack

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has earmarked ₦35 million for cybersecurity training as part of its efforts to enhance digital security measures after its website was recently hacked. The incident, which raised concerns about the vulnerability of critical government infrastructure, has prompted the bureau to prioritize building a more robust digital defense system.

According to the NBS, the cybersecurity training initiative will focus on equipping staff with the skills needed to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats effectively. The budget also covers the acquisition of advanced cybersecurity tools and the implementation of best practices to safeguard sensitive data and ensure the reliability of public information systems.

In a statement, the NBS acknowledged the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks targeting government institutions and underscored the importance of investing in proactive measures. “As custodians of national data, we must ensure the integrity and security of our systems. This training is a critical step toward achieving that goal,” the bureau said.

Cybersecurity experts have lauded the move, emphasizing that human error often plays a significant role in successful cyberattacks. They stressed the need for continuous education and awareness programs to complement technical defenses.

The recent hack of the NBS website disrupted access to key economic data, highlighting the potential implications of cybersecurity breaches on governance and public trust. Analysts have called for a comprehensive review of the cybersecurity infrastructure across all government agencies to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As the digital landscape evolves, the NBS’s focus on cybersecurity training represents an important commitment to protecting Nigeria’s data infrastructure. The initiative is expected to strengthen the bureau’s ability to deliver reliable and secure data services, contributing to broader national efforts to combat cybercrime.