The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has urged Nigerian policymakers to place the protection of digital freedoms at the centre of the country’s cyber laws, warning that security measures should not come at the expense of citizens’ rights. “Our aim is to ensure that Nigeria’s technology policies are proactive, not reactive,” Ya’u said. He noted that effective digital policies require sustained engagement between government, civil society and academic institutions to prevent the enactment of laws that unintentionally restrict fundamental freedoms. “Cyber laws must protect freedom of expression, privacy, and access to information, not suppress them,” she said, adding that lawyers have a responsibility to help the public understand digital laws and ensure they align with the Nigerian Constitution. He called for stronger collaboration among civil society groups, researchers and technology experts to develop policies that support innovation while safeguarding citizens’ freedoms.