NITDA Launches National Cybersecurity Conference To Tackle Nigeria’s Skill Gap.
On Wednesday, 9 July 2025, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), kicked off the inaugural National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC 2025) in Abuja. The two-day event, themed “Building a Resilient Digital Future,” aims to address Nigeria’s critical cybersecurity workforce shortage and bolster the nation’s digital defences.
NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Abdullahi, revealed that Nigeria faces a staggering 90.6% cybersecurity workforce gap, with only 25,760 professionals available to serve a population exceeding 220 million. To meet global standards, the country requires at least 275,000 experts, a ratio of one per 800 citizens, compared to the current one per 8,000. Abdullahi highlighted the urgency of closing this gap to safeguard Nigeria’s rapidly growing digital economy, which is increasingly vulnerable to sophisticated cyberattacks targeting financial systems, healthcare, and critical infrastructure.
The conference, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, drew participation from 175 organisations, including government agencies, universities, tech firms, and international partners. National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu underscored the government’s commitment to fortifying cyberspace, announcing initiatives such as the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre for real-time threat response, an Executive Order to protect critical digital assets, and revisions to the Cybercrime Act to address emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
A key highlight was the Cybersecurity Hackathon, showcasing innovation among ministries, departments, agencies, and young professionals aged 18-35. The 24-hour challenge tested advanced skills, fostering practical solutions to cyber threats. NITDA also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with SecDojo, a France-based cybersecurity training firm, to establish a national cybersecurity academy. This initiative will provide hands-on, simulation-based training to build a robust pipeline of skilled professionals.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, addressed vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s booming fintech sector, revealing plans for a Cybersecurity Research Centre by 2026 to redirect the skills of young cybercriminals towards productive use. Senator Shuaibu Salisu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, called for digital literacy training for lawmakers to strengthen legislative frameworks.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, praised NITDA’s leadership, noting that the conference marks a pivotal step towards a secure digital future. With Nigeria enduring an average of 2,560 cyberattacks weekly, the event emphasised collaboration among government, private sector, academia, and global partners to enhance digital trust and resilience.
The NCSC 2025 is expected to yield stronger cybersecurity infrastructure, increased digital literacy, and accelerated talent development. By spotlighting youth participation and innovative policies, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in cybersecurity across Africa, ensuring a safer digital landscape for its citizens.
