The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, from the 25th to the 27th of September 2024, participated in the Security Awareness Workshop organized by the Absolute Security Consultancy Services.
The significant training took place at the prestigious National Institute for Security Studies, Usuma Dam, Bwari, Abuja. This impactful event brought together key personnel from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) at both the state and national levels, including military personnel, naval officers, police officers, civil defence officers, NBA, officials from financial intelligence units, directors, and top executives.
The goal of the workshop was to sensitize participants on security matters, with a focus on addressing the unique challenges facing Nigeria today. The workshop offered a platform for professionals from various sectors to engage, learn, and strategize on enhancing Nigeria’s security landscape.
Nigeria, as one of Africa’s sub-regions, faces a particularly complex array of issues. From terrorism to banditry, kidnapping, oil bunkering, and cybercrimes, the facilitators of the workshop addressed these pressing issues head-on. The key message was clear: collective security requires the commitment of all MDAs, coupled with professionalism and the implementation of best practices.
Some Key Highlights of the Workshop include;
1. Health First:
One of the unique aspects of the workshop was the organizers’ focus on the well-being of participants. Upon arrival, each participant underwent a medical check-up, underscoring the importance of maintaining health and alertness in security roles.
2. Contemporary Security Threats in Nigeria:
Facilitators focused on the major security threats that have had far-reaching impacts on Nigeria’s infrastructure and economy. The Boko Haram insurgency, militancy, oil theft, herder-farmer conflicts, banditry, and kidnapping were extensively discussed. A special emphasis was placed on cyber security and the need to protect vital national assets. The recent attacks on the Nigerian Transmission Company (TCN) in Yobe and Maiduguri were highlighted as examples of the growing threats to infrastructure.
3. Family Safety and Responsibility:
The facilitators reinforced that security starts at home. Given the current insecurity in the country, each family member plays a crucial role in safeguarding their loved ones. The workshop stressed the importance of personal responsibility in protecting one’s immediate environment and how community safety feeds into national security.
4. Confidentiality and Information Management:
In a world where sensitive information is increasingly vulnerable, maintaining confidentiality in document security protocols was a focal point. Facilitators discussed best practices for information management, particularly within data centers and government institutions. Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information was identified as a key risk, underscoring the importance of strict adherence to security protocols across all MDAs.
The Security Awareness Workshop organized by Absolute Security Consultancy Services was a resounding success. It not only provided participants with essential tools and knowledge to address Nigeria’s unique security challenges but also fostered a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and proactive engagement. As Nigeria continues to face dynamic threats, workshops like this are crucial in ensuring that key personnel across MDAs are equipped to protect national assets and contribute to a safer, more secure nation.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) was represented at the workshop by its 1st Vice President, Sabastine Anyia, and Publicity Secretary, Bridget Edokwe.
