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In a decisive move to tackle rising cyber threats, Plateau State’s Commissioner for Science, Technology & Innovation, Hon. Bako Cletus Shurkuk, has pledged full governmental support for C-C Pro’s Digital Education Initiatives against Cyber Crimes. The collaboration, solidified during a high-level meeting at the Joseph Gomwalk Secretariat, aims to equip youths with digital literacy tools while curbing online exploitation and cybercrime across the state.
RELATED: PICTDA & PLATEC applaud C-C Pro, advocate for sustainable impact in tech education
Shurkuk reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness. He pledging full support for C-C Pro’s Child Protection Initiative Against Cyber Crimes (C-C Pro).
“This initiative is timely, given the growing concerns of cybercrime, online fraud, and internet misuse among young people. We need proactive measures to ensure our youths can harness technology responsibly,” said Shurkuk.
Key Initiatives & Commitments
- Teen-Tech Mentorship Program: Launching March 19 at Government Secondary School, Hwolshe, to train 500+ students in cybersecurity, coding, and ethical internet use.
- Statewide Cybercrime Survey: Proposed by Shurkuk to map vulnerabilities and tailor interventions for Plateau’s 2.1 million youths (NPC 2023).
- Research-Driven Strategy: C-C Pro presented findings from its study, “Internet Use and Data Compliance of Nigerian Youth”, revealing 63% of Plateau teens lack awareness of privacy settings.
C-C Pro’s Vision for Cyber Safety and Digital Innovation
During the meeting, C-C Pro spokesperson, Mr. Andrew Amos, presented the organization’s ongoing research, “Internet Use and Data Compliance of Young People in Nigeria”. Amos highlighted the need for policy interventions to enhance cyber safety in schools and communities.
Mr. Amos emphasized that C-C Pro’s core mission is to:
- Promote digital literacy among students and educators
- Raise awareness of cybersecurity risks and online safety measures
- Foster creativity and innovation in the digital space
- Protect young people from online predators and cyber exploitation
He further called on the Ministry of Science, Technology & Innovation to actively support C-C Pro’s upcoming Teen-Tech Mentorship Program. The event is scheduled for March 19 at Government Secondary School, Hwolshe, Jos. This program will equip students with essential digital skills while educating them on cyber ethics and responsible internet use.
“Our research shows 1 in 3 Plateau youths face online predation. Through workshops and AI-driven reporting tools, we’re building a firewall of awareness,” said Mr. Amos.
As a demonstration of the government’s commitment, Hon. Shurkuk pledged ministerial representation at the event, appointing the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Fidelis, to attend on his behalf.
“We are fully committed to leveraging technology for positive change. I encourage C-C Pro to expand its impact across Plateau State. Additionally, I suggest conducting a statewide survey on cybercrime prevalence to develop evidence-based interventions,” he added.
Govt’s Commitment to Digital Safety and Innovation
The meeting was attended by key officials of the Ministry, including:
- Mr. Richard, Director of Energy Engineering
- Mr. Eugene Dalgop, Director of Agriculture and Innovation
Both officials commended C-C Pro’s initiative. They highlighted its potential to bridge the digital divide and equip Plateau youths with 21st-century skills.
Shurkuk assured continued government collaboration with digital advocacy organizations, stressing that cybersecurity and digital innovation are critical pillars in Plateau State’s technology roadmap.
“Our youth must not only embrace digital tools but also understand the risks associated with them. The Plateau State Government remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that drive safe and responsible technology adoption.”
Why The Teen-Tech Mentorship Program Matters
- Cybercrime Surge: Nigeria ranks 3rd globally in cybercrime losses (FBI 2023), with Plateau reporting a 40% YoY rise in phishing scams.
- Digital Divide: Only 28% of Plateau’s rural youth access cybersecurity education (SMEDAN).
- SDG Alignment: Supports UN Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 9 (Industry Innovation).
Event Preview: Teen-Tech Mentorship
- Curriculum: Hands-on sessions in password encryption, social media safety, and AI ethics.
- Guest Speakers: Includes cybersecurity experts from Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
- Post-Program Support: Top participants to join a 6-month innovation incubator funded by the Plateau ICT Development Fund.
