1,250,000
Total Ransomware Attacks
Number of ransomware incidents reported in Nigeria in 2026
15,200
Average Ransom Paid (USD)
Average ransom amount paid in USD per attack
150 billion NGN
Cybersecurity Budget (NGN)
Annual cybersecurity expenditure in Nigerian Naira
3,600,000
Phishing Incidents Detected
Number of phishing attempts identified in 2026
45,000
Cybersecurity Workforce
Number of cybersecurity professionals employed in Nigeria in 2026
Nigeria faces a rising wave of ransomware attacks in 2026, with over 1.2 million incidents reported. The average ransom paid has increased to approximately $15,200, reflecting the growing sophistication of cybercriminals. Significant investments have been made in cybersecurity, totaling around 150 billion NGN, to bolster defenses and protect critical infrastructure.
Despite these efforts, phishing remains a major threat, with over 3.6 million attempts detected this year. The country's cybersecurity workforce has expanded to 45,000 professionals, aiming to address the increasing demand for digital security expertise and improve national resilience against cyber threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common types of ransomware attacks in Nigeria?
The most common types involve data encryption malware targeting businesses and government agencies, often delivered via phishing emails or malicious downloads.
How is Nigeria improving its cybersecurity defenses for 2026?
Nigeria is investing in advanced threat detection systems, expanding cybersecurity workforce training programs, and strengthening legal frameworks to combat cybercrime effectively.
Disclaimer: All statistics presented are 2026 estimates and projections based on industry trend analysis, historical data, and publicly available research. Individual data points may vary from actual figures.