The United States Embassy in Abuja has urged Nigeria to improve its Security system by integrating advanced technologies, emphasising the importance of innovative solutions in strengthening the country’s resilience. Bradley Markwald, the Senior Regional Security Officer at the Embassy, presented this suggestion during his speech at the ASIS International Chapter 273 Annual General Meeting in Abuja. Focusing on the theme “Leveraging Technology for Enhancing National Security in Nigeria,” Markwald revealed how technology-based strategies could influence the nation’s ability to protect its citizens and resources.
Markwald asserts that Nigeria’s expansive landscape, increasing residents, and abundant resources present distinct prospects and challenges for national security. He emphasised that a robust strategy to address these issues might include utilising advanced surveillance and monitoring systems. He noted the importance of satellite imagery, noting how NigeriaSat-X, along with data from the European Space Agency’s Copernicus initiative, can be used to monitor extensive areas, border regions, and essential facilities. According to Markwald, these technologies would enable officials to stay updated on developments nationwide, facilitating faster and more accurate reactions to possible safety threats.
Importance of AI-driven UAVs with thermal imaging is highlighted.
Alongside satellite advancements, Markwald discussed the increasing importance of drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), with advanced features such as thermal imaging and AI-powered tracking. He proposed that these drones could be crucial in surveilling isolated regions and gathering information on activities that might signal potential safety risks. Such an approach would allow for proactive measures in difficult-to-reach areas where traditional protection methods may be less effective. He emphasised the benefits of incorporating sensor networks at borders, major roads, and maritime ports.
These networks could enable personnel to detect unusual activity, such as unauthorised vehicle movements or unexpected gatherings, enabling authorities to respond before issues escalate. According to Markwald, enhancing border control technologies could prove crucial to the nation’s progress. He advocated implementing advanced electronic solutions to reduce human error and increase the precision of border inspections. Integrating biometric methods, such as facial recognition and fingerprint identification, into platforms like the Advanced Passenger Information Systems (APIS) would optimise the validation process, ensuring that entry is permitted solely to authorised persons.
Many countries have adopted technology to strengthen their border security.
Automated Border Control (ABC) systems, currently in use at many global airports, have the potential to improve efficiency at the country’s borders, streamlining entry and exit processes while enhancing safety and convenience. Additionally, he suggested the adoption of Smart Border Management Systems that utilise biometric information and real-time monitoring to oversee the flow of people and cargo across the border. Markwald emphasised the importance of cybersecurity as a fundamental component of national defence in today’s digital age. He underscored the necessity of protecting sensitive information, vital infrastructure, and digital networks from cyber attacks. To secure crucial data, he recommended implementing advanced encryption techniques, including AES-256 and quantum cryptography.
He suggested that Nigeria implement advanced cybersecurity measures, such as Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and artificial intelligence-based anomaly detection tools. Utilising these technologies would enable the nation to recognise and respond to cyber threats instantly, strengthening the protection of essential Infrastructure from digital risks. A strong cybersecurity framework featuring Security Operations Centers (SOCs) equipped with AI-powered technologies could enhance the ability to withstand cyber threats. Markwald proposed that the National Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT) adopt advanced solutions such as FireEye’s Network Security and Forensics tools for immediate threat identification and action.
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During the same occasion, Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, was praised for his active approach to tackling security issues in Abuja. Edward Orim, the Chair of ASIS International, Chapter 273, recognised Wike’s dedication to fighting Insecurity and emphasised the importance of technology in supporting these initiatives. Orim, who has been re-elected as chairman, underscored that a lack of political commitment continues to be a major challenge in enhancing technology implementation to tackle safety issues across the country. He emphasised that technological advancements to reinforce defence initiatives may not be fully utilised without robust political support.