The Computer Forensics Institute, Nigeria (CFIN), the recognized body established by law and responsible for developing digital and forensics experts for the nation had a  six-day professional certification training Boot Camp for its members  in Lagos from 24th - 29th May, 2010.  In the course of deliberations during the training programme, the CFIN had a cursory analysis of the cyber security readiness of the nation, the national database management systems, the Nigeria Evidence Act of 1943 under amendment, and the role of CFIN in Nigeria Vision 20-2020 and arrived at the following observations and recommendations:

OBSERVATION

1. The internet being a globally accepted platform for global computing and cross border transactions has necessitated a more critical look at cyber security issues within nations.


2. The numerous Agencies/Institutions involved in gathering Biometrics data such as INEC, Nigeria Immigration Service, National Planning Commission, National Population Commission, NHIS, Prisons, National Identity Card Management Agency etc. has resulted in fragmented information database systems in the country, duplication of records and wastage of resources, thereby limiting the usefulness of these databases to the nation.


3. Nigeria being the most populous cyber-aware black population on earth with increasing prevalence of cyber and digital crimes amongst others, which negatively impact on the country’s global image, has necessitated the rebranding concept. 


4. Nations around the world are investing heavily in IT infrastructure and human capacity building in readiness for the new frontier in cyber economy and interdependency with the associated regulatory framework to combat cyber terrorism and all forms of cyber and digital fraud.


5. The lack of effective legal framework for prosecution and conviction of those involved or suspected of digital crimes due to the outdated extant Nigeria Evidence Act which is not in consonance with technological advancement and international best legal practices.


6. The need for professional expertise in detecting, preventing and providing expert advice to law courts on digital related offences.


7. The need for government MDAs and institutions to train and develop resources for the prevention and detection of digital related frauds.


8. The need for an encompassing bill to tackle the menace of digital crimes in the country.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The CFIN, therefore, advocates for the following in line with the Nigeria Vision 20-2020 ICT Concept:Implementation of the initiatives in the Nigeria National ICT For Development (ICT4D) Strategic Action Plan to foster a competitive environment with ample opportunities and choices.

1. Establishment of appropriate legal and regulatory frameworks to support e-business and ICT-enabled activity. The legal framework will address law enforcement, electronic contracts, consumer protection, intellectual property rights, dispute resolution, privacy, cybercrime and data protection and other aspects of information security.


2. Expedite the amendment of the Nigeria Evidence Act and the passage of the Cyber Crime and Information Protection Agency bill.


3. The need for government MDAs and institutions to train and develop resources for the prevention and detection of digital related frauds.


4. The immediate establishment of a central database management office for the collection, collation, and maintenance of all biometrics databases in the country.