The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has disclosed that its official website fell victim to a cyberattack, disrupting access to critical national data. The Bureau announced the breach on its X account (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, assuring the public that recovery efforts are in progress.
“This is to inform the public that the NBS Website has been hacked, and we are working to recover it. Please disregard any message or report posted until the website is fully restored. Thank you,” the NBS statement read.
The attack raises concerns about the potential manipulation of national statistics and the integrity of sensitive data during the downtime. As Nigeria’s foremost agency for economic, governance, and development statistics, the NBS plays a key role in shaping public policy and decision-making processes.
The incident highlights the rising vulnerability of government systems to cyber threats, especially as digitization continues to transform governance and public administration. Experts warn that cyberattacks on institutions like the NBS could lead to misinformation, financial fraud, or a loss of public trust if hackers disseminate falsified data through compromised channels.
“This attack underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures, including continuous monitoring, regular audits, and staff training to recognize threats like phishing,” said Adebola Akande, a cybersecurity consultant.
While the Bureau has not provided a timeline for the restoration of its website, it has assured the public that all official updates will be shared via its verified social media channels. Citizens are advised to verify statistical information through these trusted platforms and disregard unverified reports.
The breach is part of a growing trend of cyberattacks on Nigerian government institutions.
