New Waves of Cybercrime, Terrorism Remain A Constant Threat – Buhari
– Buhari says cybercrime must be regulated to be checked.
– He urges world leaders to ensure that the digital world is safe and secured.
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed concern over the new waves of cybercrime and terrorism in Nigeria, adding that they remain a constant threat if left unregulated.
President Buhari said this in his keynote address at the 2019 Annual Investment Meeting held on Monday in Dubai, UAE.
While decrying that they have continued to threaten the positive strides of his administration, he added that digital globalisation has, on one hand, has made the human race more productive and more efficient.
“Today, we have digital banking, virtual currencies and many social platforms that connect people and cultures.
“On the other hand, we have seen platforms hijacked and manipulated as evidenced by the steady rise in fake news and cybercrimes.
“More recently, we are also witnessing the use of the cyberspace to manipulate elections, subvert the democratic rights of citizens as well as propagate violence.”
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While admitting that the digital world has become the new frontier for both good and evil, President Buhari, therefore, added that the challenge for world leaders is to ensure that this space is inclusive, accessible and safe.
“In Nigeria, our mobile phone penetration exceeds eighty percent. This means the majority of Nigeria’s one hundred and ninety million citizens are fully connected to this new digital world; especially our youth.
“Sixty-five percent or one hundred and seventeen million Nigerians are under the age of 25 years. These bright minds are the drivers of this emerging digital sector.
“Today, Nigeria has close to ninety technology hubs and every day, new ones are coming up and they are all developing solutions for Nigerian, and indeed global problems.
“Already, these young entrepreneurs have attracted investments of over one hundred million dollars. A sizeable amount from overseas including Silicon Valley.
“As many of you from this region are aware, Nigerian start-ups always have a very impressive outing at the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX). Many have won prizes.
“As leaders, it is, therefore, our responsibility to create the enabling environment for these minds to flourish and reach their full potential,” he stated.
