Nigerian Cybersecurity Team Shines at the 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the Nigerian cybersecurity team, known as Error, secured third place at the 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon held in Abuja. This intense competition, which spanned 30 hours, brought together some of the brightest minds in cybersecurity from across West Africa, showcasing their talents in a series of challenging "Capture the Flag" (CTF) exercises.
A Strong Team with a Proven Track Record
The Error team comprised three talented members: Ikeh Augustine, Ige Paul, and Mark Uche, led by Ezekiel Inyele Victor. This isn’t their first rodeo; they previously finished in second place during the inaugural ECOWAS Hackathon in Benin Republic and clinched third place in the second edition held in Togo earlier this year. Their consistent performance highlights not only their individual skills but also their ability to work effectively as a cohesive unit.
The Competition Heats Up
The 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon, which commenced at noon and concluded at 6 PM Nigerian time, was a fierce contest. Participants from various ECOWAS member states engaged in rigorous CTF exercises designed to test their cybersecurity prowess. The competition was not just about speed; it required strategic thinking, teamwork, and a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles.
Emerging victorious was the team from Côte d’Ivoire, "ShellxRoot," which amassed an impressive 510 points and successfully captured five flags. Following closely was Benin’s team, "M3V7R," which secured the second position. Additionally, Beata Hannah Bangura was recognized as the best female competitor, showcasing exceptional talent and skill throughout the event.
Recognition and Rewards
The top three teams, along with the best female participant, were awarded various prizes, including certification vouchers sponsored by ECOWAS, laptops from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and cash prizes. The remaining nine teams also received cash rewards for their participation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in the cybersecurity domain.
Acknowledgment from ECOWAS
Mr. Sédiko Douka, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalization, congratulated all participants for their professionalism and dedication during the competition. In his closing remarks, he underscored the importance of staying updated with the latest cybersecurity challenges and techniques, encouraging participants to continue honing their skills.
“The hands-on experience you have gained here will strengthen your skillset immensely,” Mr. Douka stated, urging teams to keep advancing their expertise in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
Commitment to Cybersecurity in West Africa
The ECOWAS Hackathon, which coincided with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, serves as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration and innovation among the region’s brightest minds. The event, organized in partnership with NITDA on behalf of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, aims to bolster West Africa’s digital economy by nurturing young talents and promoting cybersecurity technology.
Mr. Douka reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to strengthening cybersecurity and building a resilient cyberspace in West Africa. “By enhancing the cyber workforce, ECOWAS is contributing to the region’s stability and security. In an age where cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve,” he added.
The Future of Cybersecurity in West Africa
The ECOWAS Hackathon has become an essential platform for identifying and promoting young tech talents in West Africa. Participants are encouraged to push the boundaries of innovation and contribute to the region’s cybersecurity resilience. As Mr. Douka emphasized, “We are committed to nurturing the digital potential of our youth, ensuring that West Africa remains competitive in the global digital economy.”
In conclusion, the 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon not only highlighted the impressive skills of the Nigerian team but also underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in tackling cybersecurity challenges. As the region continues to evolve in the digital age, events like these play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cybersecurity in West Africa.