The Nigerian Government of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have jointly launched the Joint Case Team on Cybercrimes (JCTC), a pioneering multi-agency initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to combat the growing threat of cybercrime.
Speaking at the official launch in Abuja, Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described the JCTC as a “bold and transformative stride” within the criminal justice system. He emphasised that the initiative represents more than a project—it marks the “birth of a vision.”
“This vision is anchored on synergy, coordination, and mutual respect among the core institutions charged with delivering justice,” he noted.
The JCTC comprises representatives from several key agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrimes Centre (NPFNCCC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (NgCERT), the Federal Ministry of Justice, and the Federal High Court.
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The initiative is designed to address the increasingly complex nature of cybercrime by promoting a unified approach to investigations—one that prioritises intelligence sharing, minimises bureaucratic obstacles, and ensures prosecutors and investigators collaborate from the outset.
“Laws alone are not sufficient to win this battle. It is the people who interpret, enforce, and apply these laws who must be well-equipped, united, and empowered to act swiftly and effectively,” Mr Fagbemi added.
The launch also acknowledged the critical support of international partners, including the UK National Crime Agency (NCA), the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and the Commonwealth Secretariat (CommSec), who provided essential IT equipment and foundational training for the task force.
David Hanson, Minister of State at the UK Home Office, remarked that the initiative will significantly bolster efforts to tackle cybercrime and strengthen the wider criminal justice system.
“We are proud to have supported the development of this initiative, and we stand ready to assist further. We look forward to continued collaboration in addressing those who defraud citizens in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom,” Mr Hanson said.
Stakeholders from across Nigeria’s justice system were urged to rally behind the JCTC, which is expected to serve as a model for effective inter-agency coordination in combating cyber threats.
The event concluded with the official unveiling of the task force, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, and a resounding call for unity, integrity, and resolve among JCTC members as they lead the fight to protect Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
