UN Convention on Cybercrime: A call to Action by Wilson Babangida Agboti

 

A Call to Action: Nigeria’s Commitment to the Convention Against Cybercrime

On December 24th, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention Against Cybercrime, a landmark global treaty designed to strengthen international cooperation in combating cybercrime and protecting societies from the growing threats of digital attacks. This historic convention marks the first international criminal justice treaty negotiated in over two decades, signifying its critical importance in addressing the complexities of cyber threats in today’s interconnected world.

The convention, set to open for signature in 2025, will come into force 90 days after being ratified by at least 40 member states. It represents an extraordinary opportunity for nations to collectively establish robust frameworks to deter, detect, and respond to cybercrime.

As a Defense Consultant, Chief Operating Officer of Community Impact Affinity (CIA), and Vice Chairman, Committee on Security of the Council of Emissaries, International Society of Diplomats, I, Wilson Babangida Agboti, MWPC, am compelled to call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to take a proactive stance by positioning itself to become a signatory to this convention when ratification opens in 2025.

Why Nigeria Must Act Now

  1. Rising Threats of Cybercrime:
    Cybercrime has escalated globally, with developing nations like Nigeria increasingly targeted due to rapid digital transformation, limited cybersecurity frameworks, and resource constraints. Nigeria must adopt international measures to safeguard its digital economy and protect citizens from exploitation.

  2. Economic Impact:
    The digital economy is central to Nigeria’s growth, yet it remains vulnerable to cyber threats that can undermine progress. By aligning with the Convention Against Cybercrime, Nigeria can enhance trust and security, encouraging domestic and foreign investment in its digital sector.

  3. Regional Leadership:
    As a leading nation in Africa, Nigeria has the opportunity to champion this convention for the region. By becoming a signatory, Nigeria will demonstrate its commitment to global cooperation and inspire other African nations to follow suit, fostering a unified front against cybercrime across the continent.

  4. Enhanced International Cooperation:
    The convention provides a structured framework for collaboration among nations to combat cybercrime. By participating, Nigeria can access resources, expertise, and partnerships to strengthen its cybersecurity capabilities and judicial mechanisms.

  5. Protection for Vulnerable Populations:
    Cybercrimes, including fraud, identity theft, and exploitation, disproportionately affect vulnerable groups. By ratifying the convention, Nigeria can enhance its ability to address these crimes and protect its citizens.

Call to the Federal Government of Nigeria

I urge the Federal Government to:

  • Prioritize Cybersecurity: Establish a multi-stakeholder task force to review and align Nigeria’s existing cybersecurity policies with the provisions of the Convention Against Cybercrime.
  • Engage Stakeholders: Facilitate dialogue with public and private sector actors, academia, and civil society to ensure an inclusive approach to cybersecurity.
  • Demonstrate Leadership: Commit to signing the convention as soon as it opens for ratification in 2025, affirming Nigeria’s position as a responsible global actor.
  • Collaborate Regionally: Work with the African Union and ECOWAS to promote the adoption of the convention across Africa, ensuring collective regional action against cybercrime.
  • Invest in Cybersecurity Infrastructure: Allocate resources to build and strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity infrastructure, including capacity-building for law enforcement and the judiciary.

A Collective Responsibility

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that transcends borders. The Convention Against Cybercrime is a historic opportunity for nations to unite against a common threat. For Nigeria, it represents not only an avenue to protect its citizens but also a chance to lead Africa into a safer digital future.

The time to act is now. I call on the Federal Government to take bold, decisive steps to ensure Nigeria becomes an integral part of this international effort. Let us demonstrate to the world that Nigeria is committed to fostering a secure, prosperous, and digitally resilient nation.

Read full news of the adoption of the Convention by UN here: UN General Assembly adopts milestone cybercrime treaty – Community Impact Affinity


Signed,
Wilson Babangida Agboti, MWPC

  • www.wilsonbabangida.online 
  • wbabs29@gmail.com


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