The Economic Community of West Africa’s (ECOWAS) cybersecurity hackathon, which aims to empower inhabitants of the region, is open to young Nigerians, the federal government of Nigeria has urged.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the agency are partners in the Capture the Flag (CTF) tournament hosted by Nigeria and organised by ECOWAS.
NITDA stated that the programme provides an excellent chance for novices and seasoned experts to immerse themselves in cybersecurity, develop new skills, and network with other enthusiasts while encouraging Nigerians to register for the competition.
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ECOWAS Unique Approach to Hackathon Rewards
Unlike other hackathons in the tech space, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a unique approach by not specifying the rewards for participants in the regional competition.
While most hackathons typically offer prizes such as cash awards, trophies, or recognition to the winners, ECOWAS has chosen to keep the rewards under wraps.
This approach has sparked curiosity and intrigue among potential participants eager to know what’s at stake. Despite the uncertainty, the competition is expected to attract talented innovators and problem-solvers from across the region, all vying for a chance to make a meaningful impact and showcase their skills.
Talented individuals and teams are invited to join this exhilarating competition. Demonstrate your expertise, collaborate with peers, and push the boundaries of cybersecurity.
ECOWAS stated on the hackathon’s website that talented individuals should be part of the talent pool driving cyberspace security for your country and West Africa.
It added that the Cybersecurity Hackathon aims to foster a platform for young technology enthusiasts, enhancing the cyber workforce in the region.
Eligibility Criteria and Nigeria’s Effort to Bridge the Cybersecurity Talent Gap
The competition’s registration period began on July 18 and is anticipated to end on August 5, 2024. To be eligible for the hackathon, participants need to fulfil the following prerequisites, according to ECOWAS:
Each participant must be a citizen of a nation that is part of ECOWAS. Please be aware that only participants who live in the area will receive travel tickets. A minimum of three (3) and four (4) players must make up each squad. It is recommended that teams have a minimum of one (1) female member.
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The age range for participants must be seventeen (17) to thirty-five (35) years old. Things to be aware about Nigeria now has one of the lowest numbers of cybersecurity specialists worldwide, despite a steady rise in cyberattacks.
As for the cybersecurity workforce, there are currently four million unfilled positions worldwide, according to a recent report from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2).
Nigeria and South Africa have more significant gaps to fill because they currently have fewer cybersecurity specialists than other countries, according to a global assessment that studied two African nations.
Meanwhile, the country is addressing this talent shortage through its 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, where the government aims to train 3 million Nigerians in technical skills, including cybersecurity.