FirstPower Staff Trained on Cybersecurity to Strengthen Data Protection, Safeguard Operations
November 4, 2026
Staff of the FirstPower Electricity Distribution Company Limited have been trained on cybersecurity awareness as part of efforts to strengthen the protection of the company’s information systems, business operations and customer data.
The training, held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at the Auditorium Hall of the company’s Corporate headquarters in Awka, Anambra State, was organized for members of the Executive Management and key operational departments, for onward transfer of the knowledge and lessons to subordinates and other colleagues.
The knowledge-rich event was declared open by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Okechukwu Okafor, who described cybersecurity as a shared responsibility that requires the vigilance and active participation of every member of staff, irrespective of position or department.
Engr. Okafor noted that the increasing dependence on digital platforms for communication, information management and business transactions had made it necessary for organisations to pay closer attention to cybersecurity risks. He emphasised that a single careless action, such as clicking an unverified link, disclosing confidential information or responding to a fraudulent request, could expose the company to serious operational, financial and reputational consequences.
He urged participants to take the training seriously and apply the lessons in their daily responsibilities, both for personal, customers’ and company’s benefits. He stressed the need for staff to be cautious when handling official emails, company information, customer records and digital transactions. He also charged them to observe established security procedures, verify unusual instructions through appropriate channels and promptly report suspicious activities or possible security breaches.
Facilitated by the Unit Head, Support and Knowledge Base, HoldCo, Mrs. Ifeoma Okeru; the Unit Head, Information Security and Network Mr. Chuks Ozoije; and the PMO Coordinator, Support, Mr. Odinammadu Emenike, the training drew participants from different FirstPower districts across the state.
Speaking during the session, the facilitators explained common cyber threats, including phishing, spear phishing, Business Email Compromise (BEC), malware, ransomware, credential theft, insider threats and social engineering. They demonstrated how cybercriminals exploit human errors, trust and urgency to deceive employees into revealing sensitive information, granting unauthorised access or making fraudulent payments.
Participants were also enlightened on safe internet browsing, the importance of using approved applications, strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, as well as the need to protect company devices and confidential information.
Particular attention was given to emerging threats involving artificial intelligence, deepfakes and synthetic content, with the facilitators warning that familiar voices, faces or seemingly genuine video messages should not automatically be taken as proof of identity.
Staff were advised to always independently verify unusual or high-risk requests, especially those involving money, passwords or confidential files.
The sessions further addressed the safe use of mobile devices, remote work platforms and removable storage media, alongside appropriate procedures for reporting cybersecurity incidents. Participants were reminded not to conceal mistakes or delay reporting suspicious activities, including clicking questionable links, opening unexpected attachments, disclosing credentials or sending sensitive information to unintended recipients.
The training also featured interactive sessions during which participants engaged the facilitators, sought clarifications and examined practical workplace scenarios to better understand how to identify, prevent and respond to cyber threats.
The exercise was attended by members of Executive Management, District Business Managers, District Commercial Managers and personnel from Finance, Billing and Customer Service, among other designated participants.
The training forms part of FirstPower’s efforts to strengthen its internal security measures, protect its operational systems and safeguard the information entrusted to it by customers. The company will continue to promote staff awareness and responsible digital practices as it works towards providing secure, efficient and reliable services.
Signed:
Izunna Okafor
Head of Communications
FirstPower Electricity Distribution Company Limited
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Some photos from the event:
