U.S. recommends technology solutions that could solve Nigeria’s security problem

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has recommended some technology solutions that could help Nigeria to address its perennial security problem.

The Embassy’s Senior Regional Security Officer, Mr. Bradley Markwald, gave the recommendations during the 2024 Annual General Meeting of ASIS International, Chapter 273, in Abuja, while calling on Nigeria’s Federal Government to leverage technology as a means to strengthen national security and build a safer, more resilient society.

Speaking on the topic “Leveraging Technology for Enhancing National Security in Nigeria”, Markwald emphasized that technology, particularly in areas such as surveillance, monitoring, and border security, could significantly bolster Nigeria’s national defense strategy.

Satellite and drone technologies

Markwald noted the importance of real-time surveillance using satellite imagery from sources like NigeriaSat-X and the European Space Agency’s Copernicus programme.

• According to him, these technologies can monitor large areas, borders, and critical infrastructure, providing real-time insights to address potential threats.
• He added that drones equipped with thermal imaging and AI-powered tracking software could offer critical surveillance in remote regions, helping authorities detect movements and activities of security threats.
• By integrating sensor networks along borders, highways, and ports, Nigeria could proactively detect unusual activities, such as unauthorized border crossings, which could aid in maintaining national security.

Technology for border control

For effective border management, Markwald advised Nigeria to implement advanced electronic border systems.

“Technologies like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, similar to those used in the Advanced Passenger Information Systems (APIS), would streamline identity verification, enabling quicker and more accurate border checks,” he said.

He suggested implementing Automated Border Control (ABC) gates, already in use globally, and introducing Smart Border Management Systems to monitor individuals and vehicles in real-time without compromising security.

• As a case in point, Markwald referenced the UAE’s eGate system, which uses biometric data to streamline immigration processes while strengthening security.
• For Nigeria, he said portable devices like Suprema ID’s BioMini Slim 3 fingerprint scanners could enhance border efficiency, reduce human error, and minimize unauthorized entries, contributing to smoother, safer border management.

Bolstering cybersecurity and cyber resilience

In today’s digital landscape, Markwald emphasized that cybersecurity is essential for safeguarding national security.

• He recommended advanced encryption protocols like AES-256 and quantum cryptography to protect Nigeria’s critical government and corporate data.
• To identify and counter cyber threats in real time, Markwald encouraged the use of technologies like Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and AI-powered anomaly detection.
• He also suggested Nigeria establish advanced Security Operations Centers (SOCs) equipped with the latest AI-driven solutions and real-time threat response capabilities.
• According to him, the National Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT) could consider adopting advanced cyber defense systems, such as FireEye’s Network Security and Forensics, to bolster its ability to detect and respond to cyber incidents.

“The commitment to adopting and investing in these technologies will help Nigeria better protect its citizens, safeguard critical infrastructure, and secure the nation’s future,” he said.

Markwald emphasized that cooperation and intelligence sharing between local and international agencies would play a crucial role in Nigeria’s national security.