E-Business
Africa: 2023 Cyberthreats Landscape, Next Year Predictions
By Yusuph Kileo
In recent years, of African countries are working hard to adopt 2030 African digital transformation agenda. Finance, education, agriculture, government, security, and manufacturing, are actively adopting digital technologies and transitioning their operations to online platforms.
As we advance in technology throughout the continent, nations need to remember, cybersecurity and personal data protection are fundamental principles in the implementation of the digital transformation project in order to minimise the challenges that come along with the technology.
The year 2023 was filled with countless cyberattacks across many countries — Some of these attacks targeted critical infrastructure, financial institutions, governments and other companies.
As African countries are now pushing for digital transformation and experiencing rapid economic development, cybersecurity remains a pressing concern for businesses across Africa.
Unfortunately, some of the African countries indicate inadequate security measures to fight off cybercrime, leaving them highly susceptible to cyberattacks — They have weak prevention mechanisms to combat cyber threats and poor intrusion detection systems, thereby placing sensitive transactions at significant risk.
There is an increase in the volume and sophistication of cyberattacks in financial institutions.
According to the 2023 Africa Financial Industry Barometer, 97% of surveyed leaders of financial institutions in Africa rank cybercrime and regulatory constraints on cybersecurity as the leading threat to the financial services industry alongside worsening economic conditions.
These massive cyberattacks in the region threatens the security of the growing economy and critical infrastructure.
MTN Nigeria, lost $53 million from its mobile money service which forces them to sue several banks in the Nigeria, financial institutions and e-citizen portal where halted by distributed denial of service attack in Kenya, South Africa there is an increase in backdoor and spyware attacks with an alarming 106,000 recorded attempts.
There are many similar cybersecurity incidents in other African countries and there is a need of urgent action to strengthen protection measures.
Failure to counter cyberthreats can have serious consequences for individuals, businesses and the socio-economic development of the continent.
Africa is not alone in this, In September alone other part of the world experience massive cyberattacks — To mention few notable cyberattacks; On September 6, the travel booking company Sabre experienced a serious ransomware attack where by 1.3 terabytes of data were stolen by Dunghill and just few days letter, on September 11th another ransomware attack on save the children lead to the loss of 6.8 terabyte of data and entertainment company MGM Resorts also suffered a cyberattack which was made public on X saying that the security incident severely impacted its business operations.
The following day on September 12, Hong Kong-based cryptocurrency exchange platform, CoinEx, saw the loss of US$70 million in cryptocurrency following a cyberattack launched against it.
In 2023, the most common cyberthreats in Africa includes Insider threats, Social Engineering, Software update supply chain attacks, Phishing attacks, Mobile malware, online shopping fraud, Ransomware, Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attack, Cryptojacking attacks, IoT botnet DDoS attacks and Malware attacks among others.
According to the year 2023 Positive technology report, the most targeted organizations with cyberattacks were those in the financial sector (18%), followed by telecommunications companies (13%), government agencies (12%), and organizations from the trade (12%) and industrial (10%) sectors.
The impact brought by these growing cyberattacks includes, Loss of customer/business, Loss of organisation critical data, Threat to organisation/National Security, Damage of goodwill and Reputation, Loss of Revenue — Economic Losses, Temporary or permanent closure, Lawsuits and arbitrations, Danger of terrorism, Time wastage and System down time — reduce productivity.
2024 cyberthreats prediction
Many report shows Africa being the most targeted region with cyberattacks, the year 2024 new techniques of cyberattacks will likely emerge, such as the increase in AI usage, hacktivism and targeting of smart home tech.
New botnets and rootkits will also likely appear, and hacker-for-hire services might increase, as will supply chain attacks, which might be provided as a service on cybercriminals’ underground forums.
According to Kaspersky, Advanced Persistent Threats (APT) is expected to expand surveillance efforts to include more smart home technology devices, such as smart home cameras and connected car systems.
This is particularly interesting for attackers because those devices are often uncontrolled, not updated or patched and subject to misconfigurations. This is also a concern because more people work from home nowadays, and their companies could be targeted via weak points in the home worker devices.
More hacktivism is expected affect many parts of Africa. Hacktivists will run Distributed Denial of Service attacks, increasingly use tools for Deepfakes and impersonation/disinformation. In addition, destructive and disruptive operations can be done. T
he use of wipers in several current political conflicts or the disruption of power in Ukraine are good examples of both types of operations.
Cybercriminals are also expected to develop new methods for automating cyberespionage. One method could be to automate the collection of information related to victims in every aspect of their online presence: social media, websites and more, as long as it relates to the victims’ identity.
State-sponsored cyberattack numbers also have the potential to surge, amid increasing geopolitical tensions. These attacks will likely threaten data theft or encryption, IT infrastructure destruction, long-term espionage, and cyber-sabotage.
The generative AI tools usage will increase, this will facilitate the mass production of spear phishing email content, which is often used as the initial vector of infection when targeting organizations. The messages written by the tools are more persuasive and well-written compared to the ones written by cybercriminals. It might also mimic the writing style of specific individuals.
The widespread use of technology, combined with insufficient cybersecurity measures, lack of right skillset, inadequate legislation in the field of information security, and a low level of public awareness concerning information security, creates favorable conditions for cybercriminals. Moreover, many African countries are facing economic constraints, making it difficult to allocate sufficient funds for cybersecurity.
African governments must develop, implement and regularly update national cybersecurity policies and strategies, involving a wide range of stakeholders in the process.
Establishing a dedicated national institution (Cybersecurity authority) to coordinate cybersecurity activities, respond to cyber incident, monitor threats and help organizations recover from major cyberattacks should be a top priority for governments.
Governments should work on creating and implementing legislation for the protection of personal data. This legislation should combat cybercrime, guarantee the protection of personal data, and maintain the digital security of citizens and organizations.
Regular cybersecurity awareness should be conducted. People should be educated on potential privacy risks when working in virtual environments.
Governments should identify critical information infrastructure, disruption of which could cause non-tolerable events at the level of industries and countries.
Collaboration between governments and industry peers is also recommended to enhance collective defense against cyberattacks and exchange best practices and thoughts.
Organisations should implement best practices in safeguarding personal and corporate data.
Organizations should have an up to date incident response plan that will help in case of cyberattack. The plan should contain steps to take, as well as a list of people and services to reach in case of emergency. This plan should be regularly tested by conducting attack simulations.
Network segmentation might limit an attacker’s exploration of compromised networks. Critical systems in particular should be totally isolated from the rest of the corporate network.
Establishing continuous vulnerability assessment and triage as a basement for effective vulnerability management process
Implementing strict access controls is highly recommended. The principle of least privilege should always be in use for any resource. Multifactor authentication should be deployed wherever possible.
Mr Yusuph Kileo is an award-winning Cyber security and Digital Forensics Expert
Lagos state government has unveiled a comprehensive set of cybersecurity guidelines designed to enhance digital safety for businesses, public institutions, and residents across the state.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor
Gbenga Omotoso, commissioner for Information and Strategy, said the initiative represents a significant step in Lagos’ ambition to establish itself as a smart, secure, and globally competitive digital hub.
He noted that as one of Africa’s fastest-growing technology ecosystems, Lagos is increasingly exposed to cyber threats, necessitating stronger and more coordinated security measures.
Citing data from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Omotoso, said Nigeria loses over $500 million (about N250 billion) annually to cybercrime, emphasizing the urgency of proactive interventions.
According to him, while the state’s transition into a smart city offers vast opportunities, it also heightens vulnerability to digital attacks.
“The guidelines, available online, provide practical and scalable recommendations for small businesses, large enterprises, and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs),” he said.
He added that the framework aligns with key national regulations, including the Cybercrime Act (2024), the Nigeria Data Protection Act (2023), and the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (2021).
Omotoso emphasised that the document is not intended as a regulatory instrument but rather as a resource to equip stakeholders with actionable and context-specific guidance.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to fostering a secure digital environment that supports innovation, attracts investment, and strengthens public confidence.
The commissioner commended the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, led by Prof. Fene Osakwe, for its contribution to the development of the guidelines, and also acknowledged Tubosun Alake, commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, for his support.
He added that the framework is expected to boost collaboration between the public and private sectors, enabling organisations, from small enterprises to multinational firms, to operate more securely.
Omotoso further noted that the guidelines would be reviewed periodically to keep pace with emerging threats and evolving technologies, stressing that cybersecurity remains central to Lagos’ digital transformation agenda.
E-Business
Laundry Without Interruptions: Why LG Auto Restart Washing Machines Are Perfect for Nigerian Homes
In many Nigerian households, laundry day often comes with an added challenge, unpredictable power supply. A washing cycle that suddenly stops due to a blackout can leave clothes half-washed, soaked, and inconveniently delayed. For families with busy schedules, restarting laundry from scratch is not just frustrating, it wastes time, water, and electricity.
LG Electronics addresses this everyday concern with a simple but powerful innovation: the Auto Restart feature in LG Twin Tub Washing Machines. Designed with real-life Nigerian conditions in mind, this feature ensures your laundry continues seamlessly, even after an unexpected power outage.
Understanding the Auto Restart Feature in LG Washing Machines
The Auto Restart feature allows an LG washing machine to automatically resume its wash cycle from the exact point it stopped when power is interrupted. Instead of resetting the cycle or requiring manual input, the machine retains the previous settings and continues washing once electricity is restored.
This intelligent design removes the need to:
- Restart the wash cycle manually
- Guess how long the clothes were already washed
- Repeat washing unnecessarily
For households experiencing frequent power cuts, Auto Restart turns a common inconvenience into a non-issue.
Why Power-Friendly Washing Machines Matter in Nigeria
Power outages remain part of daily life across many parts of Nigeria. From urban centres to rural communities, sudden electricity interruptions can disrupt household routines, especially when appliances are running.
Traditional washing machines often reset completely after power failure. This can result in:
- Incomplete washing
- Over-washing clothes when cycles are restarted
- Increased water and electricity usage
- More time spent monitoring the laundry
LG’s Auto Restart feature is designed specifically to overcome these challenges, making it a highly practical solution for Nigerian homes.
Key Benefits of LG Auto Restart for Nigerian Households
- Uninterrupted Laundry Experience
With Auto Restart, you don’t need to stay close to your washing machine or worry about power restoration while you’re away. The machine takes care of itself and resumes washing automatically.
- Saves Time, Water, and Energy
Restarting a wash cycle means using extra water and electricity. Auto Restart ensures that no part of the wash is wasted, helping households operate more efficiently.
- Protect Your Clothes
Repeated washing or incorrect restarting can lead to fabric wear. By continuing from the correct wash stage, LG Auto Restart helps maintain proper fabric care.
- Ideal for Busy Families and Professionals
Whether you’re managing a large household or balancing work and home responsibilities, Auto Restart ensures laundry doesn’t become another task that demands constant attention.
LG Twin Tub Washing Machines: Built for Real Living
LG Twin Tub Washing Machines are widely appreciated in Nigeria for their durability, affordability, and strong washing performance. Combined with Auto Restart, these machines become even more responsive to local household needs.
Other features include:
- Powerful wash action for tough stains
- Separate wash and spin tubs for greater control
- Long‑lasting build quality designed for frequent use
- Efficient water usage, especially useful in water‑conscious households
These qualities make LG Twin Tub washing machines a popular choice among Nigerian consumers looking for reliability and value.
Ideal Washing Machine for Areas with Frequent Power Outages
If you live in an area where electricity supply can be unpredictable, choosing a washing machine with Auto Restart is no longer optional but it’s essential. LG washing machines with Auto Restart are especially suitable for:
- Homes with irregular power supply
- Large families with frequent laundry needs
- Users who value convenience and efficiency
- Households looking to reduce water and energy waste
Why LG Washing Machines Stand Out in Nigeria
LG continues to be a trusted name in home appliances across Nigeria due to its focus on durability, smart features, and customer-centric innovation. By designing washing machines that work reliably under local conditions, LG reinforces its position as a brand that understands and responds to everyday challenges.
From Auto Restart technology to powerful wash performance, LG washing machines provide practical solutions that simplify daily life.
Final Thoughts: Less Stress, More Control Over Laundry
Laundry should not depend on the perfect electricity supply and with LG Auto Restart washing machines, it doesn’t have to. By automatically continuing wash cycles after power outages, LG helps Nigerian households enjoy greater convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind.
For anyone searching for the best washing machine for power cuts in Nigeria, LG washing machines with Auto Restart offer a smart, reliable, and stress‑free solution – every wash, every time.
For more information, visit https://www.lg.com/africa/twin-tub-washing-machines
Access Holdings Plc and Coronation Group have partnered with Tate Modern to commemorate World Art Day with a virtual session highlighting the global significance of Nigerian modernism.
Access Holdings
The event, titled “In Conversation with Osei Bonsu: Inside Nigerian Modernism,” featured a virtual tour of the Nigerian Modernism exhibition and discussions on the evolution of modern art in Nigeria.
The session brought together staff members across both organisations, reflecting growing institutional engagement with arts and culture as a driver of societal development.
Speaking at the event, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer of Coronation Group, Ngozi Akinyele, emphasised the role of art in shaping identity and national development.
She said that beyond financial capital, cultural and intellectual capital are essential in defining a nation’s prosperity and inspiring dialogue.
Akinyele noted that both organisations were committed to democratising access to art, ensuring it is accessible to a wider audience rather than a select few.
The discussion also featured insights from Tate Modern Curator, Osei Bonsu, and art expert Daniel Wallis, who examined the development of Nigerian modernism and its global relevance.
Bonsu said Nigerian modernism represents an independent reimagining of global art, rooted in the country’s diverse cultural heritage and expressed through unique visual languages.
According to him, the movement challenges narrow, Eurocentric definitions of modernism and highlights the richness of African artistic expression.
The session further underscored the growing international recognition of Nigerian art, particularly through exhibitions at Tate Modern.
Participants also reflected on the visit of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the exhibition, described as a milestone in promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage globally.
In his closing remarks, Chief Communications Officer of Access Holdings, Amaechi Okobi, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing African narratives on the global stage.
He said the collaboration with Tate Modern aligns with broader efforts to promote dialogue, preserve cultural identity and support the creative sector.
The event reinforced a shared commitment by Access Holdings, Coronation Group and Tate Modern to elevate African art globally and ensure Nigerian cultural narratives continue to shape international conversations.
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