Digital Economy: Government urges Nigerians to participate in ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon

*The National Information Technology Development Agency discloses the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon is designed to empower Nigerian youths and other Information Technology enthusiasts across the sub-region with new, vital cybersecurity skills

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

As part of efforts at empowering Nigerians to acquire new skills, and network with fellow enthusiasts, the Federal Government has urged the youths and Information Technology (IT) enthusiasts to join the Capture the Flag (CTF) competition by registering to participate in the Economic Community of West Africa’s (ECOWAS) Cybersecurity Hackathon.

ConsumerConnect reports the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), which announced this stated that the ECOWAS Hackathon is an annual ethical hacking competition that brings together top cybersecurity talents from across the African sub-region, providing a unique opportunity to showcase skills, encourage knowledge sharing, and promote excellence in the field of cybersecurity.

Mrs. Hadiza Umar, fnipr, Director of Corporate Affairs and External Relations at NITDA, said the event aims to empower citizens across the region with vital cybersecurity skills.

The Cybersecurity Hackathon competition is being organised by ECOWAS and hosted by Nigeria, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and NITDA.

According to the Nigerian IT sector regulatory agency, the Cybersecurity Hackathon presents an excellent opportunity for both beginners and seasoned professionals to dive into the world of cybersecurity, acquire new skills, and network with fellow enthusiasts.

NITDA also stated: “All talented individuals and teams are invited to join this exhilarating competition.

“Demonstrate your expertise, collaborate with peers, and push the boundaries of cybersecurity.”

Why Nigerian youths, IT enthusiasts should participate, by NITDA

This initiative came at the time of a recent report by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), which highlighted a global gap of four million unfilled cybersecurity jobs.

The Federal Government of Nigeria is addressing this talent shortage through its 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, organised by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.

The programme aims to train three million Nigerians in technical skills, including cybersecurity.

The agency further urged Nigerians to be part of the talent pool driving cyberspace security for their country in particular, and West Africa as a whole.

As regards the advantage of participation in the event, the NITDA emphasised the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon “fosters a platform for young technology enthusiasts, enhancing the cyber workforce in the region.”

It particularly encouraged Nigerian youths to participate and showcase their brightest minds in the competition.

“Whether a cybersecurity novice or a seasoned expert, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn new skills and connect with fellow cyber enthusiasts,” NITDA asserted.

The agency noted the first edition took place in Porto Novo, Benin Republic in 2022 and Lome, Togo in 2023.

Eligibility and Registration Details, include registration from July 19, 2024, to August 5, 2024.

On eligibility criteria for participation

The IT sector regulator further revealed the eligibility criteria to include, that all participants must be citizens of ECOWAS member countries; travel tickets will be provided for participants residing within the region; teams must consist of 3-4 members, with at least one female participant; and participants must be between 17 and 35 years of age.

NITDA stated: “Don’t miss this thrilling opportunity to be part of West Africa’s cybersecurity community.

“Whether you are a cybersecurity novice or a seasoned expert, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn new skills and connect with your fellow cyber enthusiasts .”

Registration for the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon is now open. Join this exciting Capture the Flag (CTF) competition by clicking the link below: https://ecowasctf.ng](https://ecowasctf.ng.

The agency urged prospective participants to contact Foluke Bassey, anipr on 09081152798 or Oluwole Alao, anipr 07010296756 for more information on the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon.