…Joint Case Team on Cybercrime Launched to Bolster Justice Collaboration
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening the fight against cybercrime through bilateral cooperation.
The agreement sets the stage for collaborative efforts in intelligence sharing, coordinated law enforcement operations, and joint prosecutions. It also marks the formal launch of the Joint Case Team on Cybercrime (JCTC), a multi-agency initiative designed to foster unified responses to digital threats.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), described the JCTC as a “product of foresight, persistence, and shared conviction” to tackle the rising tide of cyber threats.
“The launch of the JCTC represents a bold paradigm shift in our collective response to cybercrime. We are coming together not just as institutions, but as one community of justice,” Fagbemi said.
The JCTC comprises representatives from the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrimes Centre (NPFNCCC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (NgCERT), the Federal High Court, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and the Federal Ministry of Justice.
Fagbemi emphasized that while strong legislation such as the Cybercrimes Act of 2015 (as amended) is crucial, success lies in empowering the institutions and individuals tasked with enforcing the law.
“The most potent weapon in this fight is not just technology, but unity,” he said.
In his remarks, UK Minister of State for Home Affairs, Lord David Hanson, said the partnership would help both countries crack down on cybercriminals while contributing to economic growth.
“This MoU represents our shared commitment to combat cybercrime. We are pleased to support Nigeria in this vital effort and work towards a safer digital environment for all,” Hanson said.
He reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria with resources and expertise to bolster cybersecurity infrastructure and enhance justice delivery.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) also endorsed the initiative. In a goodwill message, its Country Director, Mr. Cheikh Toure, hailed the development as a critical step toward building resilience against transnational cyber threats.
“Through partnerships rooted in trust and common purpose, we can create a safer, more secure digital space,” Toure said, reaffirming UNODC’s commitment to capacity-building and inter-agency collaboration.
The MoU is expected to serve as a framework for future initiatives between Nigeria and the UK in the global fight against cybercrime.
