In a bid to combat the growing menace of cyber-crimes, the Africa Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning (ACETEL), in collaboration with Digital Footprints, has successfully organized a 5-day short-course on Digital Forensic and Incident Response. This highly anticipated program commenced on Monday, June 19, 2023, and concluded on Friday, June 23, 2023, at the esteemed National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) headquarters in Abuja.

The primary objective of this intensive course was to equip participants with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to effectively identify, investigate, and respond to digital incidents. With representatives from various security personnel in attendance, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, who was represented by Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) of Academic Affairs, emphasized the importance of this workshop in equipping security personnel with the expertise to combat cyber-crimes.

Prof. Peters reiterated the alarming rise in cyber-crimes within Nigeria's contemporary society, emphasizing the indispensable role of digital forensics in law enforcement investigations. He expressed, "Cyber-crimes are increasingly alarming these days, and thus, the need for appropriate software or methodology to address this situation is inevitable."

ACETEL Director, Prof. Grace Jokthan, also addressed the participants in her welcoming speech, highlighting the evolving nature of cyber threats that pose challenges to the security of individuals, organizations, and nations alike. She emphasized the importance of staying one step ahead by equipping organizations and individuals with the knowledge, tools, and techniques required to safeguard digital assets and preserve the integrity of evidence.

"The workshop delved into the intriguing world of cyber investigations, exploring various aspects such as evidence connection, preservation, analysis, and effective management of cyber incidents. Real-life scenarios were examined, and the latest trends and challenges in the field were discussed. The trainers, which included esteemed organizations such as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB), Presidential Amnesty Programme, and Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Technology, were better equipped to handle digital incidents, identify potential vulnerabilities, and mitigate future risks upon completion of the workshop."

Dr. Tombari Sibe, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Digital Footprints Limited, provided an overview of the course, stressing the need for preparedness in the face of escalating cyber-crime rates. With technology driving radical transformations in various sectors, ranging from banking to e-governance and even e-elections, the significance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. The course, meticulously organized by ACETEL and Digital Footprints, aimed to equip participants with the necessary skill set to confront the ever-evolving threat landscape, both as individuals and as corporate entities.

Dr. Sibe assured attendees that the course was designed to be highly practical, utilizing some of the best tools available. Hands-on practical exercises were incorporated to provide a comprehensive learning experience. "We are very practically inclined," he added.

The successful conclusion of the Digital Forensic and Incident Response Course marked a significant milestone in fortifying the capabilities of security personnel against cyber-crimes. ACETEL and Digital Footprints have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in empowering individuals and organizations to tackle the challenges posed by the digital realm.