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 spanned 30 hours, challenging participants from across West Africa to demonstrate their cybersecurity prowess through a series of demanding “Capture the Flag” exercises.
Team Composition and Previous Achievements
The Error team comprised three talented members: Ikeh Augustine, Ige Paul, and Mark Uche, with Ezekiel Inyele Victor serving as the team leader. This year’s performance follows a commendable track record; the team previously finished second in the inaugural ECOWAS Hackathon hosted by the Benin Republic and clinched third place in the second edition held in Togo in 2023. Their consistent success highlights their dedication and expertise in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
The Competition Landscape
The 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon, which commenced at noon and concluded at 6 PM Nigerian time, attracted participants from 11 ECOWAS member states and Mauritania. The event was designed to test the cybersecurity skills of young professionals aged 18-35, fostering collaboration and innovation among the region’s brightest minds.
The competition was fierce, with the Ivorian team “ShellxRoot” emerging victorious, amassing a total of 510 points and successfully capturing five flags. Benin’s team “M3V7R” finished in a close second, showcasing the high level of talent present at the event. Additionally, Beata Hannah Bangura was recognized as the best female competitor, further emphasizing the diverse talent pool participating in the hackathon.
Awards and Recognition
The top three teams, along with the best female participant, received various accolades, including certification vouchers sponsored by ECOWAS, laptops from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and cash prizes. The remaining nine teams were also acknowledged with cash rewards for their participation, underscoring the inclusive spirit of the competition.
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 emphasized the importance of staying abreast of the latest cybersecurity challenges and techniques, urging participants to continue refining their skills. “The hands-on experience you have gained here will strengthen your skillset immensely,” he stated, encouraging teams to keep advancing their expertise in this critical field.
Commitment to Cybersecurity in West Africa
The ECOWAS Hackathon, which coincided with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, serves as a vital platform for promoting cybersecurity in West Africa. Mr. Douka reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to strengthening cybersecurity and building a resilient cyberspace in the region. He noted, “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.”
The Importance of the Hackathon
The hackathon, organized in collaboration with NITDA on behalf of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, is pivotal for West Africa’s digital economy. It aims to foster innovation, collaboration, and learning, which are essential drivers of growth and development. Participants are encouraged to present innovative solutions to the ever-evolving challenges in cybersecurity and other emerging technologies.
Looking Ahead
As the ECOWAS Hackathon continues to grow in significance, it remains a crucial platform for identifying and promoting young tech talents in West Africa. The event not only showcases the skills of participants but also emphasizes the importance of collective efforts to secure the region’s cyberspace. Mr. Douka’s call for good sportsmanship and collaboration among participants reflects the spirit of the hackathon, which aims to nurture the digital potential of the youth and ensure that West Africa remains competitive in the global digital economy.
In conclusion, the 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon was not just a competition; it was a celebration of talent, innovation, and the collective commitment to enhancing cybersecurity in West Africa. As teams like Error continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, the future of cybersecurity in the region looks promising.