NITDA commissions national cybersecurity centre at BUK to bolster digital security
By Uzair Adam
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has commissioned a National Cybersecurity Centre at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), in a move to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity capacity and digital resilience.
The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, at the university’s New Campus, was performed on behalf of NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, by Dr. Jide Ajayi, Director of Zonal Coordination at the agency.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ajayi described the centre as a strategic national asset that goes beyond infrastructure.
“It is the activation of a knowledge-driven platform designed to equip our nation with the tools, talent, and infrastructure required to safeguard our digital space,” he said.
He added that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Strategic Blueprint of the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
The newly commissioned facility is expected to support cybersecurity education, research, capacity building, and innovation.
Dr. Ajayi noted that cybersecurity has become an indispensable pillar for building trust in the digital economy, especially in an era of increasing cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
He announced that NITDA, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), will co-host the first National Cybersecurity Conference from July 9 to 10, 2025, in Abuja.
The event will bring together global experts, policymakers, and innovators to chart the future of AI-powered cybersecurity in Nigeria.
In his vote of thanks, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, FMAN, expressed deep appreciation to NITDA and the Ministry of Communications for their commitment to technological advancement and education.
“This centre is a symbol of foresight and commitment. It will significantly improve the quality of teaching, research, and practical training in cybersecurity at our university,” he said.
Professor Abbas added that BUK already runs undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in cybersecurity and is prepared to launch a PhD programme soon, noting that the centre will enhance the university’s role as a national hub for cybersecurity excellence.
He also reaffirmed BUK’s readiness to collaborate with NITDA and the ministry in training, research, and policy development, stressing the university’s strategic position in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.
The establishment of the National Cybersecurity Centre at BUK marks a major step in fortifying Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and promoting inclusive, region-based digital empowerment.