Following the conclusion of the African Internet Governance Forum in Abuja, parliamentarians and stakeholders have voiced their apprehensions regarding the growing issue of cybercrime in Africa.
In a communiqué released on Thursday, it was revealed that cybercrime poses a significant potential threat to the realization of the African Union Agenda 2063.
The stakeholders emphasized the necessity for substantial investments and enhanced collaboration among African nations to effectively address the rising incidents of cybercrime across the continent.
Stakeholders call for robust measures against cybercrime
The communiqué stated, “Cybercrime remains a potential threat to the implementation of AU 2063 agenda and AU’s digital transformation strategy.
African Union and African Governments must ensure adequate investment to combat cybercrime activities, foster international cooperation, and provide capacity building for lawmakers, law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and other relevant stakeholders.”
The AU Agenda 2063 serves as a comprehensive blueprint aimed at propelling Africa towards becoming a global powerhouse through inclusive and sustainable development.
The communiqué further urged African nations to enforce robust cyber laws while incorporating a people-centric approach and instituting checks and balances.
During the event, Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasized the importance of Africa’s focus on shared norms, rules, and decision-making processes that impact the evolution and utilization of the internet.
He described the forum as a unique platform for idea exchange and collaboration that would contribute to shaping the desired internet landscape and empower all Africans.
Samuel George, a member of the Ghanaian parliament and the Secretary-General of the African Parliamentary Network on Internet Governance, stressed the critical role of national governments in addressing the digital divide in underserved and unserved areas by recognizing power as an essential component.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Shuiab Salisu, affirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to providing legislative support to ensure Nigeria harnesses the potential of emerging technologies through the creation of enabling laws.