NITDA, ONSA to Host National Cybersecurity Conference 2025 in Abuja

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

Themed “Building a Resilient Digital Future”, the four-day event is organized under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and aims to tackle Nigeria’s growing digital security challenges while equipping the next generation of cyber defenders.

As global cybercrime is projected to cause damages of $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, Nigeria’s position as Africa’s top startup hub—with the digital economy contributing 17.68% to GDP in 2024—makes strengthening cybersecurity a national priority.

“Nigeria’s rapid digital transformation increases exposure to complex cyber threats,” said Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. “This conference is a timely initiative to foster cross-sector collaboration, knowledge exchange, and resilience building.”

Youth Empowerment at the Core

With over 60% of Nigerians under age 25 and youth internet penetration at 90%, the conference will spotlight opportunities to bridge Africa’s 68,000-person cybersecurity workforce gap.

A Cybersecurity Hackathon, hands-on workshops, and innovation panels will showcase youth-led solutions, startups, and initiatives aimed at national digital resilience.

Supporting programs like the 3 Million Tech Talents (3MTT) initiative, Digital Literacy for All (DL4All), and the Renewed Hope Agenda are aligning national talent with the demands of a secure digital economy.

Private-Public Collaboration and Industry Growth

NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, urged IT professionals, businesses, and government stakeholders to attend, describing the conference as more than just a defense strategy.

“This is about shaping a digital future where cybersecurity fosters innovation, trust, and national prosperity,” he stated.

With the cybersecurity sector expected to grow 20% in job opportunities by 2025, and entry-level salaries projected at ₦4–6 million annually, the sector presents a viable path for youth employment and economic growth.

Conference Highlights

  • Cybersecurity Excellence Awards to recognize individuals and institutions championing digital safety
  • A clear implementation roadmap for the Cybercrimes Act
  • Strengthened international partnerships to address transnational cyber threats
  • A focus on mentorship and positive engagement of young talents to prevent misuse of digital skills

The government envisions the conference as a transformative platform to secure Nigeria’s digital assets and elevate cybersecurity as a pillar of national development.

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