Nigeria faces a rising cybersecurity alert as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) warns citizens about new vulnerabilities linked to ChatGPT that could expose users to dangerous data-leakage attacks. The agency’s message arrives at a crucial moment, because digital adoption in Nigeria continues to grow at record speed. Yet many users remain unaware of emerging threats within everyday tools, including artificial intelligence platforms they trust.
NITDA explained that recent discoveries show how malicious actors can exploit weaknesses within AI-powered interfaces to extract sensitive information from unsuspecting users. Although ChatGPT remains a widely used global tool, experts believe attackers can manipulate prompt structures or deploy deceptive scripts to force unintended data exposure. Consequently, Nigerian users must understand the risks and learn safe digital habits that protect personal, financial and business information.
As Nigeria pushes forward with its digital-economy agenda, safety must stay at the center. Therefore, NITDA’s alert should not create fear; instead, it should inspire stronger digital responsibility. Whenever technology evolves, threats evolve too. Yet nations that embrace proactive leadership can reduce risks and strengthen resilience. Nigeria now aims to stand firmly in that category.
NITDA also urged all citizens to update their security tools, avoid sharing confidential details on AI platforms, and remain vigilant about suspicious links or prompts. Additionally, organisations should train staff on safe AI usage because many data-breach incidents begin with simple, avoidable mistakes. Businesses that depend on automated systems must deploy stronger oversight structures. Moreover, they should review internal policies to ensure that employees never input private information into unsecured AI models.
Furthermore, this alert reinforces the government’s broader mission to keep Nigeria safe across the digital landscape. Beyond this warning, NITDA continues improving frameworks that encourage innovation while protecting users. However, effective safety also requires shared responsibility. Every Nigerian must take an active role by practicing smarter online behavior.
Although the vulnerabilities appear global, Nigeria’s large youthful population makes the country a major AI user base. Therefore, threats can spread quickly if not addressed early. With this new knowledge, Nigerians can now avoid dangerous scenarios that could lead to identity theft, financial fraud or unauthorized account access. Consequently, awareness becomes the most powerful defense.
The agency’s advisory encourages Nigerians to rely only on trusted platforms and always confirm authenticity before interacting with any AI system. Because cybercriminals constantly upgrade their tactics, the nation must stay one step ahead. Moreover, the government continues strengthening collaborations with global cybersecurity partners to ensure that Nigeria benefits from international intelligence on emerging threats.
NITDA also reminded developers, startups and tech entrepreneurs that secure design matters. They must adopt stronger encryption standards, apply regular patching routines and conduct frequent vulnerability assessments. Therefore, the tech ecosystem must unite around one mission: protecting Nigeria’s digital future.
Nigeria stands on the threshold of a major digital transformation. With the right awareness, strong leadership and responsible online culture, the nation can overcome evolving cyberthreats. NITDA’s timely alert signals the importance of caution, education and preparedness. As new technologies reshape life and business, cybersecurity must remain a daily priority.
Through steady vigilance and informed action, Nigerians can shield themselves from emerging risks and build a stronger, safer digital nation.
