A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE CYBERCRIME (PROHIBITION, PREVENTION, ETC.) ACT 2015 AND ITS EFFECTIVENESS IN COMBATING CYBERCRIME IN NIGERIA

The rapid advancement of technology has fundamentally transformed modern society, enhancing communication, commerce, and access to information. The widespread use of the internet, computers, and mobile devices has created numerous opportunities but also introduced significant risks, particularly in the form of cybercrimes. These crimes, which include identity theft, cyber fraud, hacking, and data breaches, have become increasingly sophisticated and transnational in nature. Nigeria, as a developing country experiencing technological growth, has not been immune to these challenges. In response, the Nigerian government enacted the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 to establish a comprehensive legal framework for addressing cyber threats, defining offences, stipulating penalties, and providing procedures for investigation and prosecution. This research critically evaluates the efficacy of the Cybercrime Act 2015 in addressing the growing menace of cybercrime in Nigeria. Using the doctrinal method of legal research, the study undertakes a detailed examination of the key provisions of the Act and analyzes its implementation, enforcement, and overall impact. It also compares the Nigerian framework with international standards, including legislation from jurisdictions such as the United States and the United Kingdom. The findings reveal that although the Act introduces significant measures such as international cooperation and the creation of a National Cybersecurity Fund, its effectiveness is hampered by several factors. These include limited technical expertise within law enforcement agencies, insufficient funding, lack of public awareness, and the Act's failure to address emerging cyber threats effectively. The study concludes that while the Cybercrime Act 2015 is a vital step toward combating cybercrime in Nigeria, it requires continuous review, robust implementation strategies, and enhanced public education to remain effective in an ever evolving digital landscape. Recommendations are made for legislative reform, capacity building, and stronger institutional support to ensure that Nigeria's legal response to cybercrime aligns with global best practices.