Routelink and Unity Bank Join Forces to Boost Cybersecurity Awareness in Nigeria

Routelink, a leading technology firm, has partnered with Unity Bank Plc to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity and educate Nigerians on how to protect themselves from emerging online threats. As part of this effort, the two organizations hosted a webinar titled “Building Resilience into Your Cybersecurity Strategy,” which brought together experts to discuss effective measures for enhancing cybersecurity defences.

The session was moderated by Remi Adeoti, the Chief Executive Officer of Routelink Group. He emphasized the importance of staying ahead of the ever-evolving cyber threats, particularly in today’s digital age where personal and business information is constantly at risk.

One of the key speakers at the event was Zechariah Akinpelu, Unity Bank’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), who provided valuable insights on safeguarding against cyberattacks. Akinpelu explained the growing need for vigilance, especially in the face of phishing scams—tactics used by cybercriminals to trick people into sharing sensitive information like passwords and account details.

Akinpelu stressed, “Awareness is key. Scammers often pose as trusted institutions to deceive individuals into revealing personal information. To combat this, everyone must use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. This provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.”

Akinpelu also highlighted the advantages of more advanced authentication methods, particularly biometric technologies such as fingerprint and facial recognition. According to him, these technologies offer a higher level of security than traditional passwords.

Akinpelu noted, “Biometrics go beyond passwords and even passports in terms of security. Platforms like Yahoo and Gmail now offer biometric options to help protect user accounts. These methods not only secure digital assets but also uphold professional integrity.”

The webinar also addressed the larger role of national regulatory bodies in ensuring cybersecurity for businesses and individuals alike. Akinpelu praised the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for its strong cybersecurity framework, which is designed to safeguard the banking sector.

Akinpelu explained, “The CBN’s cybersecurity framework is based on international best practices and standards. It is regularly updated to address new threats and technologies, helping to maintain a robust defence against evolving cyber risks.”

Through initiatives like this webinar, Routelink and Unity Bank hope to arm individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to defend themselves from cyberattacks. The partnership also underscores the need for continuous education in cybersecurity as technology continues to advance.

The collaboration between Routelink and Unity Bank is a significant step forward in promoting cybersecurity in Nigeria. Both organizations are committed to ensuring that businesses and individuals are well-equipped to tackle cyber threats in an increasingly digital world.