Published: July 14, 2025
ABUJA, Nigeria — Retired Colonel and former Liberian lawmaker Jimmy W. Smith is calling for stronger regional collaboration to confront the growing threat of cybercrime and disinformation across Africa.
Speaking at the 8th Conference of the Network of African Parliamentarians on Defense and Security Committees (REPAM-CDS) in Abuja, Nigeria, Col. Smith urged African nations to adopt a unified and strategic approach to tackling digital security threats, including coordinated disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and online propaganda.
“There’s no country too small to be a victim of cybercrime or the damaging effects of disinformation,” Smith said. “From hack-and-leak operations to the spread of terrorist propaganda, we must respond with collaborative and holistic strategies.”
Smith, who served as moderator of the conference’s third panel discussion — focused on cybercrime, digital threats, and the role of legislators in strengthening national security frameworks — stressed the urgency of investing in national security institutions and legal reforms across the continent.
“As conventional warfare gives way to cyber and tech-driven threats, our national defense systems must adapt,” he said. “That means more budgetary support, capacity-building, and legislative oversight.”
Despite losing his seat in Liberia’s 2023 legislative elections, Smith was overwhelmingly elected Honorary Member of REPAM-CDS, where he previously served as third vice president. Delegates described him as a “valuable asset and expert,” applauding his leadership and continued engagement in continental security affairs.
The conference — held under the theme of enhanced coordination and collective security — brought together lawmakers, military officials, and security experts from across Africa. Discussions focused on building legislative frameworks, strengthening cybersecurity, and fostering resilience in an age of digital threats.
Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, who formally opened the conference, echoed similar calls for African-led security solutions and reduced reliance on Western powers.
“It’s time we harness our resources and develop homegrown strategies for peace and development,” Tajudeen said.
He was joined by Major General Adamu Garba Laka, Director General of Nigeria’s Counter-Terrorism Center, and Ahmed Satomi, President of REPAM-CDS and chair of Nigeria’s House Committee on National Security and Intelligence. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateral cooperation and cross-border intelligence sharing.
Former Rep. Smith closed his remarks by reiterating the moral and strategic importance of regional unity.
“We converge here in the spirit of Pan-Africanism, and we must leave here with one commitment: that Africa will not be divided or delayed in confronting digital-age threats,” he said.
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