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The Federal Ministry of Justice (FMOJ) has embarked on Legal Framework on Cybercrime to combat the evolving challenges caused by the Cybercriminals.
This was made known at the Legislative Drafting Retreat recently held in Lagos.
In her welcome address, the Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs Beatrice E. Jedy -Agba OON, mni, represented by the Director Legal Drafting, Mr. Patrick Etta Oyong said, the dynamism of the digital age had ushered in unparalleled advancements and connectivity, revolutionizing the way of living, working and interacting, adding that as society becomes increasingly reliant on technology, the shadow of Cyber threats looms large.
As a result of this, the Solicitor General said, the Cybercrime Prohibition Prevention Act of 2015 required careful scrutiny and strategic enhancement to effectively fight the challenges posed by Cybercriminals.
She explained that, the Retreat would stand as a testament to the Delegates’ commitment to fostering a resilient and adaptive legal framework that not only keep pace with technological advancements but also anticipate and address emerging threats to the Nation’s Cyber security.
“Your esteemed presence here, representing diverse sectors and perspectives, underscores the gravity of the task at hand and reinforces our shared dedication to the security and prosperity of our great nation” she noted.
“Our mission over the next few days is nothing short of historic. Together we shall deliberate, innovate and collaborate to draft a comprehensive and robust Legal framework that not only empowers Law Enforcement Agencies but also safeguard the rights and privacy of our Citizens “she added.
Mrs Jedy Agba encouraged the Participants to contribute actively by drawing from their unique expertise and insight because the Retreat was not only an opportunity to shape the future resilient of Legal system against the perils of the digital realm, but also a beacon of Justice, fairness and progress.
She commended the Stakeholders for honoring the invitation to be part of the transformative process while adding that their participation, dedication and expertise were invaluable as they navigate the intricate partway of legislative drafting.
The Director Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Babadoko in his closing remarks said, the collective intellect the Participants would serve as a testament to their shared commitment to fortifying Nigeria’s defenses against cyber threats. He wished them productive deliberations
In her brief on the Review Process, the Head, Cyber Crime Unit, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs Jamila Akaaga Ade said, Nigeria acceded to the Council of Europe’s Budapest Convention in July 2023 and also part of the UN AdHoc Committee process negotiating a global treaty on Cybercrime.
“Following emerging trends and new developments in the international scene of legal frameworks, series of national consultations on the 2015 Cybercrime (Prohibition, Preventions) Act was approved under the framework of the Global Action on Cyber Crime (GLACY) project to provide advice on legislation in line with the Budapest Convention and its protocols, rule of law and human rights; and other regional and international standards” she explained.
She explained that, the Council of Europe (COE) through its Cybercrime Programme Office (CPROC) carries out capacity building projects that had been implemented in some priority African Countries including Nigeria to strengthening legislation on cybercrime and electronic evidence; data protection and ability enhancement for effective international cooperation.
The Legislative Drafting Retreat on Cybercrimes that was sponsored by Council of Europe brings together a small work force from relevant stakeholders including the African Union Group of Cybersecurity Experts, the Academia and the MDAs.
Modupe Ogundoro Director (Information)
