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The United States has made a major move to strengthen cybersecurity initiatives in Nigeria by setting up a dedicated office at its embassy in Abuja.
New American ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills Jr., announced this on Thursday during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The initiative aims to enhance collaboration with Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in combating cybercrimes.
Ambassador Mills emphasised that the United States is committed to supporting Nigeria in addressing the growing challenges of cybercrime, a partnership seen as crucial for enhancing Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework and protecting its digital infrastructure.
“I am here to ensure that our relationship blossoms both on democracy and the economic side. Our new office will focus on expanding our cooperation with the EFCC to tackle cybercrimes more efficiently,” the American ambassador said.
Ambassador Mills also highlighted the importance of this new collaboration, saying, “Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support.”
The special office will facilitate closer cooperation between U.S. and Nigerian authorities, providing technical support, training, and resources to the EFCC.
It is also targeted at improving the detection, investigation, and prosecution of cybercrimes towards strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to tackle the evolving threat.
President Tinubu welcomed the initiative, recognising Nigeria’s strategic role as Africa’s largest democracy.
“Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries.’’ President Tinubu stated.
He expressed confidence that this collaboration would yield significant benefits for both countries in enhancing security and fostering economic growth.