The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), QNA, and other strategic partners, will host the National Cybersecurity Conference 2025 from July 7th to 10th at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Organised by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the event will focus on the theme “Building a Resilient Digital Future.”
The four-day summit aims to tackle the growing digital threats facing Nigeria while promoting strategic initiatives to equip and empower future cyber professionals.
Digital Growth Demands Security
With Nigeria emerging as Africa’s leading startup hub and the digital economy contributing 17.68% to GDP in 2024, experts warn that cybersecurity is no longer optional. The global cost of cybercrime is expected to hit $10.5 trillion annually by 2025.
“Nigeria’s digital transformation brings great opportunity, but also sophisticated threats,” said Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. “This conference is a timely step towards resilience, cross-sector collaboration, and innovation.”
Empowering Young Cyber Defenders
A major focus will be youth empowerment. With 60% of the population under 25 and youth internet penetration at 90%, Nigeria is well-placed to close Africa’s 68,000-role cybersecurity workforce gap.
The conference will include workshops, panel discussions, and a high-stakes hackathon showcasing youth-led innovations and startups.
Government programmes such as the 3 Million Tech Talents (3MTT), Digital Literacy for All (DL4All), and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda are already laying the groundwork for tech skills development and economic diversification.
Call for Collaboration
NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, invited all public and private sector stakeholders to attend the event, emphasising that cybersecurity must be a driver of trust, national development, and innovation.
By 2025, Nigeria’s cybersecurity job market is expected to expand by 20%, with entry-level salaries projected at ₦4–6 million per annum.
The conference will close with the Cybersecurity Excellence Awards, recognising leaders advancing digital safety across sectors. It will also outline a roadmap for fully implementing the Cybercrimes Act and strengthening global cooperation against digital threats.
Most importantly, the government aims to guide talented youth away from cybercrime and towards constructive digital careers through mentoring and support.