NANS FCT Chairman Urges Youths to Lead in Securing Nigeria’s Digital Future, Shun Cybercrime

The Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Federal Capital Territory (FCT), ThankGod Chimenem, has called on Nigerian youths to reject cybercrime and online fraud, warning that such acts pose a grave threat to the nation’s digital identity and integrity.

Speaking on Friday at a cybersecurity summit held at the University of Abuja, Chimenem urged young Nigerians to take charge of safeguarding the country’s digital space through innovation, responsibility, and awareness. The summit, organized by the Office of the NANS FCT Chairman, focused on strengthening youth involvement in building a secure and resilient cyber environment.

In his presentation titled “Securing Nigeria’s Digital Future: Youth Innovation and National Cyber Resilience,” Chimenem stressed that the future of Nigeria’s technological advancement rests in the hands and creativity of its young people. “As technology drives every sphere of our lives—from governance and education to business and security—our ability to innovate, protect, and sustain digital systems has become a matter of national priority,” he stated.

He noted that while Nigeria’s emergence as one of Africa’s top digital economies presents immense opportunities, it also exposes the nation to risks such as cyberattacks, data breaches, and misinformation. According to him, defending Nigeria’s cyberspace is not just about coding or firewalls but about protecting the dreams and innovations of the youth.

“Our youths are not just users of technology; we are its architects,” he declared. “From AI developers in Abuja to digital entrepreneurs in Lagos and cybersecurity innovators in Kano, Nigerian youths are shaping the nation’s digital destiny.”

Experts continue to view Nigeria’s digital future as promising, with ongoing efforts to expand infrastructure, promote digital literacy, and harness emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. However, challenges in cybersecurity and digital governance remain critical areas for improvement.