Nigeria has been ranked 5th among top countries in the global cybercrime index, according to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Oxford and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra. The study identified countries that are major sources of cybercrime threats worldwide. The World Cybercrime Index (WCI) placed Russia at the top of the list, followed by Ukraine, China, the US, and Nigeria.
While being ranked in the top five for cybercrime is not a distinction to be celebrated, there are aspects of the ranking that are worth considering.
First to be considered is the distinctiveness of Cybercrimes. Born from the evolution and widespread use of technology, it represents the negative application of technical skills. For example, hacking is a legitimate and valuable skill, employed by ethical hackers to identify and address security vulnerabilities within organizational networks. However, the illegal use of this skill to access confidential information becomes a cybercrime.
Incidentally, the World Cybercrime Index (WCI) gives a deeper insight beyond just naming cybercrime hotspots. It assigns a “technical skill” score, highlighting the capabilities of cybercriminals operating within those regions. Russian cybercriminals have the highest technical proficiency, scoring 8.73 in technical skills, while Ukrainian hackers score 8.24, Chinese hackers 7.81, and American hackers 7.21. Nigeria’s technical skill level is rated at 5.80.
Notable among all these is the company Nigeria keeps in this ranking. Countries like Russia, Ukraine, China, and the US, who are globally recognized for their technological proficiency and innovation.
Even though Nigeria has not fully realized its potential in these areas. Nigeria’s inclusion in this ranking suggests a significant pool of domestic technical talent. This is a positive indicator of the nation’s potential for advancement in the technology sector. However, to truly harness this potential, Nigeria needs a strategic framework for development.
Frameworks to consider could be;
Investment in Human Resources: We are in a season where Innovation and technological skills drives the economy. Government and private entities can utilize the raw talents we have by investing in developing the skills and knowledge of Nigeria’s tech-savvy population. This can be achieved through educational programs, training initiatives, and by fostering a culture of innovation.
Encouraging Positive Utilization of Skills: Steering talented individuals towards ethical and legal uses of technology is crucial. This will not only combat cybercrime but will also contribute to Nigeria’s overall technological development.
Building a Supportive System: Creating an ecosystem that incentivizes and supports tech entrepreneurship will be vital. This includes providing access to funding, infrastructure, and a regulatory environment that fosters growth and innovation.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s ranking in the WCI can be viewed as a catalyst for positive change. By investing in its human resources, promoting ethical technological practices, and building a supportive system, Nigeria can turn its cybercrime challenge into a springboard for technological advancement and a brighter future.
Awesome piece
Looking forward to more
Precious talent going to waste
Nigerians need to get on track
Wow. I don’t know why I’m shocked by this but I am. That’s great. Our tech bros are actually doing something
Awesome piece. Continue what you do
Was shocked too.. but great work Nigeria
Hmmmm
Very wonderful article. I was initially appalled at the title wondering why such negative fact about Nigeria should be published. But the body of the article gives hope and encouragement. I pray the country shifts into the positive aspects and move away from negativity.
You dey whine our yahoo boys????????????
We are actually good in tech.
Incredible!!!
Nice piece. “Being ranked 5th in cybercrime isn’t a thing to be celebrated but the ranking aspect should be considered”.
It is sad that Nigerians dont recognise their potential
Nice piece. Keep it going ????
Nigerians should wake up and get back on track
Hmm… something to think about
Awesome.
The problem of Nigeria is failure to harness resources; human and mineral resources.
This issue is alarming. We need Nigerians to wake up
The captured need modification
Even at that just as you have said ,in every negativity we could make positive impact out of it.like empowering the cyber criminals and using them to a good advantage.
A very lovely article
The title made me wonder.. crime Nigeria obviously.. but wonderful article
The curated measures for turning around our global title is very promising.
The curated measures for turning around our global title is very promising.
These guys interested in cybercrime can easily diversify. Nicely done!
Awesome article, we need Nigerians to wake up and polish up their skills, instead of involving themselves in crime.
Whao! This is good and encouraging????????????????. Honestly, Nigeria is blessed with well tallented, knowledgeable and high tech resources, all that is required is just positive shift of mindset.
Certainly! Here’s a more refined version:
“Indeed! This serves as a wake-up call for our government to recognize and support these individuals. By investing in their abilities and talents, we can foster diversification and propel the technology industry to new heights.”
Weldon my dear