Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ Nigeria has signed a multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Kingdom to jointly combat the rising threat of cybercrime. The move marks a significant milestone in enhancing cross-border cooperation to address digital crimes that affect both nations.
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) signed the agreement and simultaneously inaugurated the Joint Case Team on Cybercrime (JCTC). The team is tasked with delivering a coordinated response to cyber threats in line with Nigeria’s Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015, as amended.
Fagbemi described the MoU as a groundbreaking development in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, emphasizing its foundation on collaboration, synergy, and institutional coordination. He noted that cybercrime is constantly evolving, and tackling it requires more than just legislation.
“Laws alone don’t win battles it is the people who interpret and enforce them who must be empowered and united,” Fagbemi said. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination between prosecutors and investigators for an effective response.
The UK Minister of State, David Hanson, expressed Britain’s commitment to assisting Nigeria in curbing cyber threats, including online fraud and financial crimes. He noted that the partnership would improve crime-fighting strategies and contribute to the economic stability of both countries.
Hanson reiterated the UK government’s readiness to support Nigeria in its fight against complex financial and digital crimes that hinder national progress.
Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, praised the bilateral initiative, stating it would strengthen both nations’ capacity to deter, investigate, and prosecute sophisticated cyber offenses. He emphasized that cybercrime transcends national boundaries, and no country can effectively combat it alone.
“The complexities of cybercrime demand unified action, shared resources, and harmonized expertise,” Tsoho said.
The Joint Case Team will include representatives from several Nigerian institutions:
- Nigeria Police Force
- National Cyber Crimes Centre (NPFNCCC)
- Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
- Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU)
- National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP)
- Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (NgCert)
- Office of the National Security Adviser
- Federal Ministry of Justice
- Federal High Court
Together, these agencies will work with their UK counterparts to respond to cyber threats, share intelligence, and build capacity in investigation and prosecution.
This initiative represents a proactive step toward a secure digital environment, showing Nigeria’s seriousness about protecting its cyberspace and enhancing international cooperation in criminal justice.
