By Nurat Uthman
Team ShellxRoot from Côte d’Ivoire has taken the top spot at the 3rd ECOWAS Regional Cybersecurity Hackathon, held in Abuja, Nigeria.
Demonstrating exceptional technical expertise and innovative problem-solving, the team secured the grand prize of $10,000 along with cutting-edge digital devices.
Team M3V7R from Benin Republic claimed second place, winning $8,000, while Nigeria’s Team Error finished third with a prize of $6,000.
The event, hosted in Nigeria’s capital, showcased ECOWAS’s and the National Information Technology Development Agency’s (NITDA) commitment to fostering young cybersecurity talent across the region.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of NITDA, represented by Oladejo Olawumi, Director of IT Infrastructure Solutions, emphasized the importance of developing youth skills to address growing cyber threats.
He noted “It is crucial to tap into the energy of young people, channeling it towards cybersecurity to keep them engaged in positive activities and away from crime.”
The event was the result of collaborative efforts among ECOWAS, NITDA, governments, private sector organizations, and academic institutions, aimed at addressing the rising challenge of cybercrime across borders.
Sediko Douka, Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalisation at the ECOWAS Commission, represented ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray. He highlighted the Hackathon’s role in empowering young talent, stating,
“The Hackathon is a platform for nurturing skills and supporting youth in the digital age. By strengthening our cyber workforce, we enhance regional security and stability, preparing for an ever-evolving cyber landscape.”
Douka encouraged participants, highlighting how their involvement has not only deepened their understanding of current cybersecurity challenges but also provided hands-on experience to refine their skills. “This competition is a testament to ECOWAS’s vision of building a robust and resilient cyberspace, aligning with global efforts to safeguard digital assets,” he added.
He also pointed out that new regulations have been adopted at both the African Union and ECOWAS levels to ensure member countries maintain the highest standards of cybersecurity, urging nations to enforce these measures.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of Hannah Bangoura from Sierra Leone, who won the Best Female Participant award. Her achievement underscored the growing influence of women in the field of cybersecurity across West Africa.
