In today’s digital age, securing data is a major concern everywhere, including in Nigeria. With its growing digital economy, the country faces a sharp rise in data breaches and cyber threats, which could harm its progress if not addressed.
Enter cloud computing, which offers a secure, scalable, and cost-effective solution to help Nigeria protect its data while supporting its digital transformation.
Nigeria’s struggle with data security
Nigeria’s increasing reliance on technology has opened the door to new vulnerabilities. A report from Surfshark shows that data breaches in the country jumped by 64 percent in the first quarter of 2023 alone.
This highlights significant weaknesses in the country’s ability to protect sensitive information, with businesses, especially in finance, healthcare, and e-commerce, at risk of cyberattacks. So, how can organisations reduce these risks and secure their data for the long haul?
Cloud computing: A secure solution
Cloud computing offers cutting-edge security features that can help solve Nigeria’s data security problems. Major cloud providers like Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Google Cloud have made heavy investments in top-tier security technologies like encryption and real-time monitoring. These tools ensure that data stored in the cloud remains safe from unauthorised access and attacks.
Moreover, the cloud is in line with Nigeria’s 2023 Data Protection Act, which requires strict data security standards. With cloud services, businesses can easily comply with both local and international regulations, as these platforms already have the necessary security tools built in.
The rapid growth of Nigeria’s digital sector calls for flexible, scalable solutions. Cloud computing allows businesses to adjust their security infrastructure as their needs evolve, unlike traditional systems that require costly upgrades.
For Nigeria’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of the economy, this pay-as-you-go model makes high-level security affordable and accessible.
Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges
Despite the advantages of cloud computing, there are hurdles to overcome in Nigeria. Unreliable electricity and limited internet access are significant challenges. According to the World Bank, 85 million Nigerians lack reliable electricity, and internet penetration stands at just 39.8 percent, far below the global average of 63 percent. This raises an important question: how can Nigeria overcome these barriers to cloud adoption?
Public and private sectors must work together to improve infrastructure. Investments in broadband networks, renewable energy, and local data centres will help create a more supportive environment for cloud adoption.
While initiatives like the National Broadband Plan are steps in the right direction, continued efforts are essential to make cloud computing a practical solution for more Nigerians.
Read also: Driving innovation in cloud computing: The inspiring journey of Taiwo Akinbolaji
Tackling data sovereignty and cybersecurity concerns
Another challenge for Nigerian businesses is data sovereignty—the need to store and process data within the country’s borders. Cloud providers have responded by building local data centres, ensuring compliance with local laws, and reducing risks linked to transferring data overseas.
Cybersecurity is also a major concern, as Nigerian businesses are frequent targets of cyberattacks. However, research shows that cloud environments are often safer than traditional systems. In 2024, global spending on cloud security hit $12.6 billion, reflecting the growing trust in these platforms.
Cloud solutions offer advanced features like threat detection, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring, which provide better protection than traditional systems.
The path forward
For cloud computing to reach its full potential in Nigeria, key challenges must be addressed. Investments in infrastructure, workforce training, and supportive policies are vital. The government needs to create a favourable regulatory environment, and businesses must focus on developing the IT skills needed to maximise cloud technology.
In conclusion, cloud computing is more than just a technological trend; it’s a crucial step for Nigeria’s digital future. By adopting cloud computing to tackle data security, Nigeria can protect its digital assets, promote economic growth, and strengthen its position in the global digital economy.
The question is no longer whether Nigeria should embrace the cloud but how quickly it can do so to secure its data and future.
Subair Nurudeen Adewale is a Cloud Engineer, UI/UX Designer, IT Telecom Support Technician.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
