Experts in cyber security in Nigeria convened with Nigerian Interpol and representatives of the local intelligence community to devise strategies for addressing the increasing number of cybercrimes in the nation.
The various entities made the decision to provide the nation’s intelligence agencies with virtual and digital asset training, with a special emphasis on stablecoins.
The conference, according to CoinTelegraph, took place in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, as part of a training platform run by A&D Forensics and the Africa Stablecoin Consortium.
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The purpose of the meeting was to familiarize Nigeria’s Interpol with topics related to crimes involving digital assets, especially stable currencies.
According to Blockchain Specialist, Chioma Onyekulu, the training section aims to empower Interpol agents in Nigeria with skills to use blockchain intelligence and analysis to go after cyber criminals involved in cryptocurrency transactions, especially bitcoin and stablecoins.
Ms Onyekulu explained that cybercrime has evolved beyond traditional fiat currency, with cyber criminals now upping their game to digital assets and blockchain-related thefts.
He added that as Nigerian Interpol officers receive collaborative requests from international partners, it is important to get them prepared and equipped with the right skills to maximize crime-fighting through training.
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As Nigeria’s involvement with virtual asset exchanges continues to grow, targeted training of intelligence officers will enable them to effectively tackle cybercrimes involving virtual assets, particularly stablecoins.
Adedeji Owonibi, Senior Partner at A&D Forensics, told journalists that the training is imperative due to the rising cybercrime trends in the country. He stated:
“A significant gap exists between the evolving cybercrimes and the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in Nigeria. As responsible corporate citizens, we recognized the need to bridge this gap and support our law enforcement agencies in staying updated and effectively combating cybercrimes.” Adedeji said.
In relation to the controversies and outbursts created by the recent cyber security levy, Adedeji argued that the Federal Government retains the right to make decisions on matters that pertain to national security, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing national security.
