By Adenike Lawal
The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to revise Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act, engaging lawmakers, media professionals, and other stakeholders in a bid to strengthen digital security without undermining press freedom and civil liberties.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known in Abuja after a high-level meeting with United States Ambassador Richard Mills.
The dialogue focused on digital regulation, media rights, and safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy in the face of rising online threats.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, the Minister reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to an open and responsible digital space.
He stressed the importance of stakeholder input in shaping a law that protects the nation without gagging voices.
“A vibrant democracy needs a free and responsible press,” Idris said. “We are committed to a cybercrime law that respects freedoms while ensuring national security.”
He also announced plans to boost media and information literacy across the country to combat the spread of misinformation and disinformation.
This, he said, will help strengthen credible journalism and empower citizens to navigate the digital age wisely.
Ambassador Mills welcomed the initiative and urged Nigeria to sustain its engagement with global best practices in digital policy reform.
The review signals a crucial move to update Nigeria’s cyber laws in a way that reflects both technological realities and democratic ideals.
