ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-With cyber threats projected to cost the global economy $10.5 trillion by 2025, experts from academia, government, and the private sector have called for urgent collaboration to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity defenses.
This call was made during a two-day cybersecurity workshop hosted by the Information Technology department of Babcock University in collaboration with GXT International.
The workshop, themed “Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Ecosystem: Bridging Academia, Industry, and Organizational Practices,” brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for addressing growing cyber threats, projected to cost the global economy $10.5 trillion by 2025.
During his presentation, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Honourable Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, underscored the importance of cybersecurity in Nigeria’s digital economy.
“Nigeria may have missed out on the first and second industrial revolutions, but we have an opportunity to make a significant impact in the digital age,” he stated, stressing the need for a tripartite collaboration among academia, industry, and government agencies.
To bridge the gap between theory and practice, Salisu proposed that university professors gain industry experience during sabbaticals, while students should focus on solving real-world problems, particularly in financial technology (Fin-Tech), as part of their research work.
Similarly, CEO of Sycom, Abdulraman Akanbi, emphasized the need for practical experience, stating that employers prioritize hands-on skills over theoretical knowledge.
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“Cybersecurity is not just a profession; it’s a mission to save the digital world,” he said.
Executive Director of Momo PSB, Oluwafemi Aminu, highlighted the necessity of a coordinated approach to cyber resilience.
“We cannot afford to operate in silos; a unified, ecosystem-driven approach is the only way forward in today’s threat landscape,” he noted.
Cyber resilience, he explained, goes beyond traditional cybersecurity by ensuring that organizations can continue operations even during and after cyberattacks.
Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Honourable Tunbosun Alake, reiterated the state’s commitment to technological advancement.
“Your focus becomes your reality. If you see Nigeria as a jungle, you only see a jungle, but if you see it with its vast potential, so it becomes. We need to work together to achieve the Nigeria of our dreams,” he stated.
Babcock University’s President/Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ademola Tayo, commended the workshop’s relevance, given the increasing risks posed by cybercrime.
“This program could not have come at a better time to address such a crucial issue for our national growth and development,” he said.
The workshop also served as a platform to recognize contributions to Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, received the Excellence in Cybersecurity Leadership Award, accepted on his behalf by Senator Salisu.
Honourable Alake was also honored, while Delta State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Dr. Odinigwe Daniel Odigie, accepted an award on behalf of the Delta State Governor.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering stronger partnerships and equipping the next generation with the skills needed to secure Nigeria’s digital future.