Cybersecurity Challenges and Digital Literacy Gaps in Nigeria: Implications for Sustainable National Development

Abstract

Nigeria's integration into the global digital economy has accelerated exposure to sophisticated cybersecurity threats, whilst simultaneously revealing profound gaps in digital literacy across diverse population groups. These twin challenges, escalating cyber threats and widespread digital illiteracy, constitute a significant impediment to sustainable national development. This paper examined the nature and scope of cybersecurity challenges confronting Nigeria, the extent of digital literacy deficits among different segments of the population, and the implications of these challenges for achieving sustainable development goals. Employing a library-based research methodology that draws on secondary sources, the study anchors its analysis on the Knowledge Gap Theory to explain how differential access to digital knowledge and cybersecurity awareness deepens inequality and undermines development. Findings revealed that Nigeria faces mounting threats from phishing, ransomware, identity theft, and cybercrime syndicates, while existing regulatory frameworks remain insufficiently enforced and inadequately resourced. Digital literacy gaps are particularly pronounced among rural populations, women, elderly citizens, and out-of-school youth. These deficits collectively retard progress across economic, educational, health, and governance dimensions of sustainable development. The paper recommends that the Federal Ministry of Education should integrate digital literacy and cybersecurity into curricula at all levels, using culturally relevant content and indigenous languages to reach rural populations.