The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), QNA, and other key stakeholders, will host the National Cybersecurity Conference 2025 from July 7th to 10th at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
The event, hosted by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, is themed “Building a Resilient Digital Future.” This four-day summit aims to address Nigeria’s digital vulnerabilities while highlighting strategies to empower the next generation of cyber defenders. The global cybercrime landscape is rapidly evolving, with projected annual damages reaching $10.5 trillion by 2025.
Nigeria, now Africa’s leading startup hub, must safeguard its digital advancements—including a 17.68% GDP contribution from the digital economy in 2024—from escalating threats, many of which are powered by AI. With over 134 million internet users and expanding 5G connectivity, experts assert that robust cybersecurity is not merely an option but a critical necessity.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, stated, > “As Nigeria embraces digital transformation across sectors, the threats to our digital infrastructure, economy, and individual citizens grow increasingly sophisticated. Recognizing the critical need to address these challenges with foresight and collaboration, NCSC emerges as a timely and strategic platform for fostering resilience, knowledge exchange and cross-sector partnerships. I commend the National Information Technology Development Agency for convening this crucial gathering and for their leadership in advancing Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework.”
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Focus on Youth Empowerment
A key focus of the conference will be on youth empowerment. With over 60% of Nigerians under 25 and internet penetration among youths at 90%, Nigeria holds significant potential to bridge Africa’s cybersecurity workforce gap, currently estimated at 68,000 unfilled positions. Workshops, panel discussions, and a high-stakes Cybersecurity Hackathon will showcase youth-led solutions, startups, and innovations. The government has already laid the foundation through initiatives such as the 3 Million Tech Talents (3MTT) program, Digital Literacy for All (DL4All), and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, all aimed at channeling energy towards economic diversification and accelerating tech talent development.
Kashifu Inuwa, NITDA’s Director-General, urged all IT enthusiasts, relevant stakeholders, and key players in both the public and private sectors to participate in this groundbreaking conference. He emphasized that the conference is not just about defense, but about building a future where cybersecurity is a key enabler of trust, innovation, and national prosperity. By 2025, Nigeria’s cybersecurity sector is projected to experience a 20% growth in job opportunities, with entry-level salaries expected to range from ₦4–6 million per annum.
The event will conclude with the Cybersecurity Excellence Awards, which will recognize individuals and institutions that are driving digital safety across various sectors. At the end of the conference, it is expected that there will be a clear roadmap towards fully establishing the Cybercrimes Act and stronger global collaboration, since synergy is required to curb the threats posed by digital criminals. The government hopes to harness talents and provide mentorship to young talents who, if not guided, might otherwise use their cyber skills to become menaces to society.
Source: ChannelTV
