In a landmark move to fortify Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and Dubai-based QNA International, has announced the launch of the inaugural National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC 2025).
Scheduled to take place between July 9 and 10, 2025 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, the hybrid event is set to be the country’s premier platform for aligning policy, innovation and multi-sectoral cooperation to counter rising cyber threats.
Nigeria, one of Africa’s fastest-growing digital economies, faces increasing cybersecurity challenges. According to recent statistics, Nigerian organisations now endure an average of 2,560 cyberattacks per week, targeting both the public and private sectors. These threats have grown in complexity and scale, impacting financial systems, healthcare, education and critical national infrastructure. In response, the NCSC 2025 will operate under the theme: “Securing Nigeria’s Digital Future: Innovation, Collaboration, and Resilience.” The conference will serve as a strategic space for national stakeholders to forge practical solutions and institutional partnerships aimed at strengthening cyber resilience.
Over the two-day event, participants will engage in technical sessions, expert-led workshops and an exhibition spotlighting the latest cybersecurity technologies. International and local thought leaders will lead keynote addresses and panel discussions, exploring trends in AI-powered threat detection, data sovereignty, digital identity protection and national cyber governance. A major highlight is the ‘Capture the Flag (CTF)’ hackathon, an interactive competition designed to identify and mentor emerging talent in ethical hacking and cybersecurity research across Nigerian universities and tech communities.
Speaking at a pre-conference media briefing, NITDA director-general Kashifu Abdullahi described cybersecurity as a national imperative. “Nigeria’s digital transformation presents vast opportunities, but it also exposes us to risks that could threaten our economic stability, security and social cohesion,” he stated. He referenced the successes of Nigeria’s elite ‘Cyber Hawks’ team, which in 2024 dismantled over 5,000 fraudulent domains, as evidence of the country’s growing capabilities. “Yet,” he cautioned, “the scope and sophistication of threats require an equally strategic and collective national response.”
The NCSC 2025 is not only about mitigating immediate cyber threats; it also aims to promote long-term institutional resilience. One of its core objectives is to enhance collaboration among federal agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and international cybersecurity organisations. The summit will advocate for integrated policy frameworks and joint task forces to combat ransomware, phishing scams, and other forms of cybercrime more effectively.
A major focus will be workforce development, a growing concern amid Nigeria’s well-documented “Japa” wave, where highly skilled professionals emigrate in search of better opportunities. By spotlighting youth participation and providing hands-on learning, the conference seeks to address the cybersecurity talent gap and create a sustainable pipeline of digital defenders. Through mentorship, exposure, and engagement, organisers hope to empower young Nigerians to take on leading roles in the cybersecurity landscape both locally and globally.
Among the expected speakers are cybersecurity experts, policy leaders, private sector CEOs, and representatives of global institutions. Panel discussions will delve into threats posed by deepfake-enabled phishing, AI-driven data breaches and insider threats, while also exploring regulatory approaches to securing financial technologies (fintech). As digital wallets and mobile payments become more widespread, safeguarding financial systems will be a key topic.
To build public awareness, NITDA has called on media organisations to support a national cybersecurity awareness campaign ahead of the summit. “Public engagement is vital,” said NITDA’s director of corporate communications, Hadiza Umar. “Simple actions like updating software, using strong passwords, and managing data responsibly can drastically reduce cyber risks. The media’s role in spreading this message cannot be overstated.”
The conference will conclude with a gala dinner on July 9, celebrating individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem. Awards will be presented for excellence in innovation, policy leadership and public awareness.
The NCSC 2025 is more than a conference – it is a national call to action. By fostering collaboration across sectors, investing in human capital, and embedding cybersecurity into national development strategies, Nigeria has the opportunity to become a continental leader in digital safety. Registration details, partnership inquiries and media accreditation can be accessed via www.ncsc.gov.ng or by contacting press@ncsc.gov.ng.
As the July summit approaches, expectations are high that this initiative will mark a turning point in how Nigeria secures its digital assets and protects its future in an increasingly interconnected world.
