1.1 Introduction
Cyber security is defined as the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks, unauthorized access, or damage to information (Olaniyi, 2020). In today's digital era, cyber security has become a crucial component of national security, business operations, and social interactions. The increasing reliance on technology in Nigeria, including banking, governance, and communication systems, has exposed the nation to diverse cyber threats such as hacking, identity theft, financial fraud, and cyber terrorism (Adebayo & Chukwuma, 2019). Sustainable policing refers to the development and maintenance of a law enforcement system that is efficient, adaptive, and capable of addressing both traditional and emerging crimes while ensuring public trust and safety (Eze, 2021). In the context of Nigeria, sustainable policing requires that police officers are adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills to prevent and respond to cybercrime effectively. Awareness of cyber security among law enforcement personnel and the general public is therefore essential in reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing the overall effectiveness of policing strategies.
This chapter introduces the research by reviewing the background that informed the study, identifying the issues that led to its formulation, and outlining the aim and objectives. It also explains the study's significance, defines its scope, presents the research questions and hypotheses, addresses the limitations, and clarifies important terms used throughout the work.
1.2 Background of Study
The emergence of digital technology has transformed societal operations and introduced new dimensions to crime and security. Cyber security is increasingly recognized as a critical aspect of national safety, encompassing measures to protect computer systems, networks, and sensitive information from unauthorized access and cyber attacks. According to Olaniyi (2020), the proliferation of internet usage in Nigeria has made both individuals and institutions more vulnerable to cybercrime, including fraud, hacking, and identity theft.
Reported that cybercrime is one of the fastest-growing criminal activities in Nigeria, affecting the economic, social, and political stability of the nation (Adebayo & Chukwuma, 2019). This surge in digital offenses challenges law enforcement agencies, who must constantly adapt to evolving threats while maintaining public trust and order. Law enforcement officers often confront difficulties in detecting and preventing cyber offenses due to inadequate training in cyber security and the limited availability of specialized resources (Eze, 2021). It has been asserted that awareness and education programmes are essential in equipping both the public and law enforcement personnel with the knowledge required to mitigate cyber risks. Such programmes include training workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns designed to build competencies in identifying, preventing, and responding to cyber threats (Oluwadare, 2022).
Stated that sustainable policing is reliant on a combination of public awareness, specialized training, and collaborative strategies between different arms of law enforcement to effectively manage both conventional and emerging crimes (Eze, 2021). Furthermore, it is contended that continuous engagement in cyber security education enhances the capability of the police to prevent cybercrime and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement efforts. This study is set against the backdrop of the growing need to evaluate the effectiveness of cyber security awareness and education programmes in Nigeria and their influence on achieving sustainable policing, ensuring that both law enforcement officers and the public are adequately prepared to confront cyber threats.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that some managers experience repeated failures in their managerial duties, which negatively affect the productivity, growth, and overall performance of organizations. Managerial failure is often manifested through poor decision-making, lack of effective communication, inability to motivate employees, and failure to adapt to changing business environments (Robbins & Coulter, 2018). Such failures result in low employee morale, decreased organizational efficiency, and sometimes financial losses, which threaten the stability of business operations.
On the other hand, personal factors such as inadequate emotional intelligence, poor time management, and resistance to feedback is observed to exacerbate managerial inefficiency. Furthermore, external pressures such as economic fluctuations, competitive market forces, and technological changes is also identified as contributing to managerial shortcomings (Mintzberg, 2009). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to investigate the Awareness of Cyber Security and Education Programme Impact on Sustainable Policing in Nigerias.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to determine how awareness of cyber security and education programmes influence sustainable policing in Nigeria.
The specific objectives of this research are:
- To assess the current level of cyber security awareness among police officers in Nigeria.
- To examine the impact of cyber security education programmes on the effectiveness of policing.
- To identify challenges and gaps in cyber security education and awareness initiatives.
- To determine the role of public participation in enhancing cyber security measures.
- To recommend strategies for improving cyber security education and sustainable policing in Nigeria.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What is the current level of cyber security awareness among Nigerian police officers?
- How do cyber security education programmes impact the effectiveness of policing in Nigeria?
- What are the key challenges facing cyber security education and awareness initiatives in Nigeria?
- How does public participation influence the success of cyber security measures in policing?
- What strategies will improve cyber security awareness and sustainable policing in Nigeria?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- H01: There is no significant relationship between cyber security education programmes and sustainable policing in Nigeria.
- H02: Cyber security education programmes have a significant impact on the effectiveness of policing in Nigeria.
- H03: Increased awareness of cyber security among police officers positively influences sustainable policing.
- H04: Public participation in cyber security initiatives enhances the effectiveness of law enforcement responses to digital crimes.
1.7 Significance of Study
The outcomes of this research will inform the design and implementation of policies that support continuous training, adequate resource allocation, and the integration of cyber security awareness into broader policing strategies. In addition, the findings will guide the development of effective policies to enhance cyber security training and public engagement. Also, the study will provide knowledge that will improve their ability to detect, prevent, and respond to cybercrime.
Furthermore, the general public will benefit, as the study will emphasize the importance of cyber security literacy in protecting personal and organizational information. Awareness programmes that reach citizens will reduce vulnerabilities and foster cooperation with law enforcement, creating a safer digital environment.
Lastly, this study will serve as a reference point for future research in cyber security awareness, policing, and technology-driven crime prevention. It will contribute to the body of knowledge on sustainable policing by demonstrating the impact of education and awareness programmes on enhancing the efficiency of law enforcement.
1.8 Scope of the Study
The scope of this research focused on the awareness of cyber security and education programme impact on sustainable policing within Lagos State, Nigeria.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.10 Definition of Terms
Cyber Security: The practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and sensitive data from unauthorized access, attacks, or damage. According to Olaniyi (2020), cyber security is essential for national security and the protection of critical infrastructure.
Awareness: The level of understanding and knowledge about cyber threats and preventive measures (Adebayo & Chukwuma, 2019).
Education Programme: Structured training, workshops, or seminars designed to enhance knowledge and skills in cyber security (Oluwadare, 2022).
Sustainable Policing: The development of a law enforcement system capable of maintaining public safety and responding to both traditional and emerging crimes efficiently and ethically (Eze, 2021).
Public Participation: The involvement of citizens in supporting cyber security initiatives through reporting incidents, following safe practices, and cooperating with law enforcement (Oluwadare, 2022).
…
