The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is set to resume its operations on January 15, 2025, following a significant cyberattack that temporarily crippled its systems. This incident, which occurred on December 18, 2024, disrupted public access to vital national data and raised serious concerns about the security of sensitive information.
During a recent workshop organized by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, NBS officials confirmed the timeline for resuming services. They also announced that both the old and new Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures will be released upon their return. In the wake of the breach, the bureau had urged citizens to ignore any updates from its platforms until they could ensure the integrity of their data.
This cyberattack is not an isolated incident; Nigeria has seen a troubling rise in cyber threats targeting both public and private sectors. According to the Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT), ransomware attacks on local organizations have surged in recent years, impacting critical areas such as finance, technology, and public administration. In fact, Nigerian financial institutions reported losses exceeding ₦17 billion due to fraud in 2024 alone.
The NBS breach serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures across the country. Recent penalties imposed on major institutions for inadequate data protection, amounting to over ₦200 million against banks for privacy violations, highlights this pressing issue.
Government initiatives like the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) and the establishment of cybersecurity operation centers are crucial steps toward bolstering defenses against these evolving threats. Collaborative efforts between public entities and private firms are also gaining momentum; for example, Flutterwave has partnered with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to create a Cybercrime Research Center.
As NBS prepares to resume operations, it emphasizes the importance of ongoing vigilance in cybersecurity. Strengthening policies, investing in advanced technologies, and educating personnel about digital threats are essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s digital landscape.
With more institutions embracing digital solutions, robust cybersecurity frameworks are no longer optional, they are essential. The experience of the NBS highlights that proactive measures will be key to ensuring secure digital operations in Nigeria’s future.
