Babcock University, a private Nigerian university located in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, recently hosted a two-day cybersecurity workshop themed “Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Ecosystem: Bridging Academia, Industry, and Organisational Practices.” The event, organized in partnership with GXT International, served as a platform to discuss critical cybersecurity challenges and explore collaborative solutions, bringing together prominent figures from government, industry, and academia. A central objective of the workshop was to spotlight Babcock University’s cybersecurity program and its commitment to producing highly skilled, market-ready cybersecurity consultants.
The workshop featured a distinguished roster of speakers and awardees. Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, and Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State received awards recognizing their contributions to digital transformation, cybersecurity leadership, and youth empowerment, respectively. Senator Shuaib Salisu was honored for his work in ICT policy and cybersecurity advocacy, while Honourable Tunbosun Alake, the Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, was recognized for his efforts in advancing digital infrastructure and cybersecurity. The awards underscore the growing recognition of cybersecurity’s vital role in governance and societal development.
Dayo Abiodun, representing Governor Abiodun, praised Babcock University for its proactive approach to cybersecurity education and discourse, highlighting the Ogun State government’s commitment to leveraging digital technology across various sectors. This emphasis on digital integration signals a growing awareness of technology’s transformative potential in public service and economic development. The presence of high-ranking government officials at the workshop further demonstrated the increasing importance being placed on cybersecurity at the national and state levels.
Abdurahman Akanbi, CEO of Sycom Integrated Solutions and the keynote speaker, delivered a compelling address emphasizing the urgent need to bolster Nigeria’s cyberspace defenses against evolving cyber threats. He underscored the importance of robust cybersecurity frameworks for institutions and advocated for improved remuneration for cybersecurity professionals as a crucial strategy to attract and retain talent and deter individuals from engaging in cybercriminal activities. This call for enhanced compensation highlights the critical role of skilled professionals in safeguarding digital assets and infrastructure.
Tunbosun Alake, during his address, drew attention to government-funded opportunities available for students in the technology sector, emphasizing the twin pillars of technical skills and ethical character development. He cited the success of Paystack alumni as a testament to the long-term benefits of integrity, trustworthiness, and consistency in professional endeavors. This focus on character underscores the importance of ethical considerations alongside technical proficiency in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Femi Oluwafemi, Executive Director at Momo PSB, encouraged students to cultivate a diverse skillset beyond their academic curriculum, highlighting the importance of adaptability and resilience in an increasingly dynamic digital environment. This advice resonates with the broader theme of the workshop, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the face of evolving cybersecurity threats and technological advancements. The call for continuous learning underscores the dynamic nature of the cybersecurity field and the importance of staying ahead of emerging threats.
The workshop at Babcock University served as a critical forum for discussing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the cybersecurity ecosystem. The recognition of government officials for their contributions to digital transformation and cybersecurity leadership, coupled with the insights shared by industry experts and academics, reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in building a robust and resilient cyberspace. The event’s emphasis on bridging academia, industry, and organizational practices underscored the importance of a holistic approach to cybersecurity education, training, and implementation. By equipping students with the necessary technical expertise and ethical grounding, Babcock University aims to empower them to become effective cybersecurity professionals and contribute to safeguarding Nigeria’s digital future. Furthermore, the workshop’s focus on industry collaboration highlights the importance of practical experience and real-world application in preparing students for careers in cybersecurity.
