The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), QNA, and other key stakeholders, will convene the National Cybersecurity Conference 2025 from July 7th to 10th at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

The event, which is hosted by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, is themed ?Building a Resilient Digital Future?.

This four-day summit seeks to address Nigeria?s digital vulnerabilities while spotlighting strategies to empower the next generation of cyber defenders.

The global cybercrime landscape is evolving fast, with damages projected to hit $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. Nigeria, now Africa?s top startup hub, must protect its digital gains ? including a 17.68% GDP contribution from the digital economy in 2024 ? from rising threats, many powered by AI.

With over 134 million internet users and growing 5G reach, experts say robust cybersecurity isn?t optional ? it?s critical.

?As Nigeria embraces digital transformation across sectors, the threats to our digital infrastructure, economy, and individual citizens grow increasingly sophisticated,? said Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.

He added:

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.

A central focus of the conference will be on youth empowerment. With over 60% of Nigerians under 25 and internet penetration among youths at 90%, the potential to close Africa?s cybersecurity workforce gap ? currently at 68,000 unfilled roles ? lies in Nigeria?s hands.

Workshops, panel discussions, and a high-stakes Cybersecurity Hackathon will spotlight youth-led solutions, startups, and innovation.

The government is already laying the groundwork. Initiatives such as the 3 Million Tech Talents (3MTT) program, Digital Literacy for All (DL4All), and President Tinubu?s Renewed Hope Agenda are channeling energy toward economic diversification and tech talent acceleration.

Kashifu Inuwa, NITDA?s Director General, called on all IT enthusiasts, relevant key stakeholders, and critical players in the public and private sectors to be a part of the groundbreaking conference.

He stressed that the conference is not just about defending against threats, 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 grow by 20% in job opportunities, with salaries for entry-level roles expected to reach ?4?6 million per annum.

The event will culminate in the Cybersecurity Excellence Awards, honoring individuals and institutions driving digital safety across sectors.

It is expected that at the end of the conference, there would be a clear roadmap towards fully establishing the Cybercrimes Act; there should also be a stronger global collaboration built, as synergy is required to curb the threats posed by digital criminals.

Most importantly, the government says it hopes to use this conference to harness talents and provide mentorship to young talents who, if not guided, might otherwise use their cyber skills to become menaces to society. (Channels TV)

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