According to Kaspersky telemetry, in 2025, spyware and password stealers attacks showed the biggest year-over-year growth in Nigeria among different analysed malware types.

Spyware, which is a type of malicious software installed on users’ devices to collect their data, grew in the number of attacks by 28% compared with the previous year. Password stealers, designed to gather users’ account information, increased in the number of attacks by 22%.

Exploits decreased slightly in the number of attacks in Nigeria, however they remain an acute threat that should not be underestimated. These are programs designed by cyber attackers to take advantage of vulnerabilities in an application or operating system to gain unauthorised access to it and to cause unintended behaviour to occur on software.

Ransomware, though very targeted in distribution, remains a high-risk threat for organisations, who should also guard themselves from supply chain and trusted relationship attacks.

Overall, Kaspersky security tools blocked more than 4 million online attack attempts on users in Nigeria in 2025. Online threats typically include different types of malware attacks, such as for example, password stealers, exploits, spyware, etc. Another 9 million on-device threats were blocked in the country, including malware delivered via infected USB drives.

“Operations coordinated by INTERPOL, such as Serengeti to which Kaspersky has contributed, demonstrate how international cooperation and threat intelligence sharing can strengthen the fight against cybercrime across Africa. At the same time, both organisations and individual users in the region play an important role in improving cybersecurity by staying informed about evolving threats and practicing good cyber hygiene.

“Dedicated security solutions, including Kaspersky Next for organisations and Kaspersky Premium for individuals, can further help reduce exposure to cyber risks,” said Moses Munguti, Technical Expert & Team Lead in Africa at Kaspersky.

Malware often reaches a device through phishing messages and websites employing social engineering techniques. If an operating system, browser, or application is outdated, attackers may exploit security flaws to install malware. To significantly reduce the risk of infections with malware, Kaspersky experts advise individuals and organisations to follow these best practices:

• Be cautious with links and attachments received, verify the sender before opening files or clicking links.
• Download software only from official sources.
• Install updates for systems and applications as soon as they become available.
• Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
• Install reputable security software that can detect malware before it compromises the system.
• Regularly back up important data.
• Staying informed about current cyber threats and maintaining good digital hygiene helps keep devices and data safe.

Nigus International Investment Limited and Elmirate Investment LLC (Elmirate Capital) have inked a strategic memorandum of understanding to launch a next-generation defense technology, satellite systems, and advanced manufacturing platform in Nigeria, backed by up to $200 million in planned investment.

Nigus International

The partnership, channeled through a new Special Purpose Vehicle called Nigus Tactical Systems Ltd, aligns with Nigeria’s push for sovereign defense capabilities under the Defense Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act 2023.

It targets local production of drones, armored vehicles, munitions, cyber defense tools, and satellite networks to cut import reliance and boost regional security.

“Africa is entering a pivotal phase where technological capability defines economic strength and national security,” said HRH Prince Malik Ado-Ibrahim, Executive Chairman of Nigus International.

“This platform supports innovation, advanced manufacturing, and technology transfer to build a sustainable industrial base for national and regional needs.”

Pankajj Ghode, Managing Director of Elmirate Capital, added: “We’re proud to partner with Nigus to position Nigeria as a technology and aerospace hub.

“Our $200 million commitment connects global expertise in defense, cybersecurity, and aerospace with local talent for resilient growth.”

Key focus areas include Class C manufacturing platforms for tactical/ISR drones, unmanned aerial systems, ammunition, munitions, armored vehicles, and protected mobility; counter-terror surveillance with data analysis and border security tech; military cyber defense and cyber ranges; plus earth observation satellites, secure networks, and geospatial intelligence for defense and civilian use. The initiative aims to create high-value jobs, foster technology transfer, and establish Nigeria as a regional tech hub.

An artificial intelligence (AI) application has been developed to help combat the spread of fake news, misinformation and political propaganda as political activities gradually build toward the 2027 general elections in Nigeria.

The app, known as BAT-BOT AI, was unveiled in Abuja by Mr. Gunu Usman, its founder, who said the platform is designed to assist the federal government in addressing the growing challenge of false information within nation’s digital space.

‎Mr Usman explained that the new platform was created to ensure that factual information circulates faster than falsehood.

He noted that the rapid spread of misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and manipulated narratives targeting the administration of Bola Tinubu, the ruling All Progressives Congress, and national institutions poses risks to democratic stability and public trust.

According to Mr. Usman, BAT-BOT AI was developed to support public access to verified information while countering misleading narratives online.

The Technology expert described the system as a sovereign AI-powered civic information and fact-verification platform designed to strengthen Nigeria’s digital information ecosystem ahead of the 2027 general election.

He added that the initiative aligns with the government’s policy direction under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, which seeks to promote transparency and encourage informed civic participation.

The founder further explained that the platform is currently accessible to Nigerians through multiple digital channels, enabling users to verify claims, seek clarification on government policies and obtain information on national development initiatives.

Mr.  Usman expressed optimism that the tool would help curb the spread of false information and contribute to a more credible digital environment as the country prepares for the next electoral cycle.