Nigeria Joins 67 Nations in Reaffirming Commitment to Combat Ransomware at International Conference

Nigeria joined 67 other countries at the Fourth International Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI) Gathering, held in Washington, D.C. from September 30 to October 3, 2024.

The coalition, which now includes new members like Cameroon, Chad, the ECOWAS Commission, and Finland, reiterated its dedication to building resilience against ransomware attacks and ensuring collective support for members facing such threats.

The CRI members emphasized their commitment to countering ransomware by targeting cybercriminals, disrupting their operations, and curbing the use of virtual assets to fund these crimes. 

Partnerships with private sectors were also strengthened to enhance cybersecurity policies and support recovery from ransomware incidents.

Nigeria, co-leading the Diplomacy and Capacity Building Pillar with Germany, played a key role in expanding CRI membership and fostering international collaboration. 

The initiative also introduced a new fund launched by the United States to assist members in strengthening their cybersecurity measures and response capabilities.

During the gathering, the CRI discussed best practices for dealing with ransomware, particularly within critical sectors like healthcare, and explored the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in mitigating ransomware threats. 

The group declared that it remains committed to improving information sharing, enhancing cyber diplomacy, and holding malicious actors accountable.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has confirmed the country’s ongoing interest in joining BRICS, the influential economic bloc that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. 

Tuggar made the announcement during a recent appearance on Channels Television’s political program, Politics Today, highlighting that while Nigeria has not yet formally applied for membership, it plans to do so “at the right time.”
The discussion follows Vice President Kashim Shettima’s attendance at the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, in August 2023, where he represented President Bola Tinubu.