NITDA and ECOWAS Collaborate to Enhance Cybersecurity Skills in West Africa – Nigerian CommunicationWeek

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Unleashing Potential: The ECOWAS Cyber Security Hackathon in Abuja

In a world increasingly threatened by cybercrime, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been more urgent. Recognizing this pressing challenge, a regional security hackathon was held in Abuja, Nigeria, showcasing the remarkable talent and potential of young participants from across West Africa. This event not only aimed to identify and nurture cybersecurity experts but also to foster collaboration among nations in the fight against cybercrime.

A Platform for Young Innovators

The hackathon, the third in a series organized by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), attracted participants from 12 West African countries. Over 1,500 teams registered, including 139 led by female captains, highlighting the significant contributions of women in the cybersecurity sector. The event served as a vibrant platform for young innovators to showcase their skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities in a competitive environment.

Leadership Insights on Cybersecurity

Kashifu Inuwa, the Director General of NITDA, represented by Oladejo Olawumi, emphasized the importance of harnessing the energy and creativity of the youth to tackle cybersecurity challenges. He stated, “The vibrant competition within the technology sector is encouraging. By harnessing the energy and creativity of our youth, we can effectively fight cybercrime and prevent them from engaging in criminal activities.” His remarks underscored the necessity for countries to adhere to regional regulations and implement robust measures to protect critical institutions.

Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the urgency of protecting the region’s cyberspace. He noted that the hackathon plays a crucial role in identifying and supporting talented individuals who can contribute to cybersecurity efforts. The collaboration between ECOWAS, NITDA, governments, the private sector, and academia was pivotal in making the event a success.

Celebrating Achievements and Recognizing Talent

The hackathon culminated in an intense 30-hour competition, where teams battled to develop innovative solutions to cybersecurity challenges. The results were impressive: TeamERROR from Nigeria secured third place, winning $6,000 and laptops for each member. The M3V7R team from Benin Republic claimed second place with a cash prize of $8,000, while the top prize of $10,000 went to Shell X Roots from Côte d’Ivoire. Each winning team received laptops, further enhancing their capabilities.

A standout moment of the event was the recognition of Hannah Bangoura from Sierra Leone, who was awarded the Best Female Participant accolade. Her achievement highlighted the growing influence of women in the cybersecurity field across West Africa, inspiring many young women to pursue careers in technology.

Building a Cybersecurity Ecosystem

Inuwa emphasized that the hackathon represents a powerful symbol of unity and cooperation among ECOWAS member states. He remarked, “As threats become increasingly sophisticated and transnational, collaboration between nations is no longer optional, but essential.” The event coincided with the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, during which extensive awareness campaigns were conducted to educate the public about trending cyber threats and safety measures.

The hackathon also included training programs sponsored by donors and partners, aimed at further enhancing the skills of young participants. Inuwa noted the global cybersecurity workforce gap, with billions of jobs unfilled in the coming years, and emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for youth to showcase their abilities, ensuring pathways to recognition, employment, and growth in this critical field.

A Call for Innovation and Collaboration

Mr. Seido Douko, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalisation, welcomed participants and commended their dedication to addressing pressing cybersecurity challenges. He stated, “ECOWAS passionately believes in harnessing the power of innovation and collaboration to drive progress.” Douko stressed that as technology evolves, mere vigilance is no longer sufficient; adaptability, creativity, and cross-border collaboration are essential for building a robust and resilient cyber ecosystem.

The hackathon was more than just a competition; it was a collaborative effort to combat cyber threats. Douko encouraged participants to push the boundaries of what is possible, harnessing collective creativity and expertise to develop innovative solutions that can drive meaningful change in the region.

Conclusion

The ECOWAS Cyber Security Hackathon in Abuja was a resounding success, showcasing the immense talent of young tech enthusiasts from across West Africa. As the region grapples with the growing threat of cybercrime, initiatives like this are vital in nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity experts. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, West Africa can build a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem capable of addressing the challenges of the digital age. The future looks promising, and with continued support and investment in youth talent, the region can effectively combat cyber threats and secure its digital landscape.

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