The Delta State Ministry of Information, in collaboration with BinCom Development Centre, has intensified efforts to strengthen cybersecurity awareness among public servants through a capacity-building programme aimed at equipping workers with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate emerging digital threats.
The training, titled “How Hackers Exploit Everyday Internet Users,” was held at the Ministry of Information’s Conference Hall in Asaba and brought together staff of the ministry and other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) across the state.
The programme focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of cyber risks and promoting best practices for online safety, as part of the state government’s commitment to building a resilient and cyber-aware public workforce.
Speaking during the session, a cybersecurity analyst with the BinCom Development Centre, in collaboration with the University of Port Harcourt Alumni Association, Mr. Peter Abiya, highlighted common cybersecurity challenges facing internet users. He explained how cybercriminals target individuals through phishing schemes, social engineering tactics, public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities, weak password practices and other online scams.
According to him, hackers often exploit human behaviour by taking advantage of trust, fear, curiosity and a sense of urgency rather than relying solely on technical attacks.
“Cybersecurity is no longer just an Information Technology issue. Anyone who uses a mobile phone, bank account, email, social media platform or the internet can become a target,” he said.
In his remarks, the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, commended participants for attending the training and stressed the importance of cybersecurity awareness in today’s digital environment.
Aniagwu noted that the training was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge on how hackers operate and the measures individuals can take to protect themselves and their data.
He urged participants to apply the lessons learned without becoming overly fearful, adding that cybersecurity is fundamentally about safeguarding personal information and maintaining privacy in daily interactions.
“Today, virtually everyone has become more technology-conscious and recognises the need to protect themselves and their valuables from cyber threats,” he said.
In her closing remarks, the Functioning Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Mrs. Stella Macaulay, encouraged participants to put the knowledge acquired during the training into practice.
She emphasised that knowledge becomes valuable only when applied and urged attendees to share the information gained with colleagues, friends and family members.
Macaulay expressed appreciation to BinComDevelopment Centre and all participants for their commitment to the programme, urging them to make effective use of the cybersecurity skills and insights acquired during the training.
