By 
Closing the Cyber Gap: ITU and DBI Partner to Train Nigerian Trainers as Demand for Security Experts Surges.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in collaboration with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), has officially commenced the ITU Digital Training Centre (DTC) Train-the-Trainer Programme in Plateau State—marking the rollout of the North Central Pilot Initiative.
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The programme, which began on Monday, 23rd February 2026, is being hosted at nHub, Jos administartive capital of Plateau State.
Focused on Introduction to Cybersecurity and Cybersecurity Essentials, the training equips participants with foundational knowledge and practical competencies required to navigate today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The initiative is designed to strengthen regional digital resilience by empowering participants not only with core cybersecurity skills but also with the capacity to replicate and cascade this knowledge within their respective institutions and communities.
Inclusive Training for Diverse Participants
Speaking during the opening session, Mr. Israel Baiye emphasised the inclusive nature of the programme, noting that participants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds are encouraged to take part. He highlighted that the training prioritises commitment, curiosity, and a willingness to learn over prior technical experience.
The sessions are facilitated by DBI subject matter experts, Mr. Israel Baiye and Mr. Abubakar Abdulsalam, whose depth of expertise continues to enrich the learning experience and ensure high-quality delivery aligned with global best practices.
A Milestone for National Digital Capacity
The North Central Pilot phase represents another significant milestone in DBI’s sustained commitment to advancing national digital capacity development in partnership with global institutions. It further reinforces efforts to:
- Deepen cybersecurity awareness at the grassroots level
- Build a digitally skilled workforce capable of supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda
Why Cybersecurity Training Matters Now
The cybersecurity industry in Nigeria and across Africa is experiencing rapid growth, driven by:
- Increasing digitalisation in banking, finance, and government
- A 58% rise in cyber incidents
- Over ₦1 billion lost to cyberattacks in Nigeria in 2024
Demand is surging for skilled professionals in cloud security, threat detection, and risk management.
Growing Needs and Key Trends (2025-2026)
- Massive Talent Gap: Over 70% of African nations require improved cybersecurity infrastructure, while Nigeria faces a severe shortage of professionals to counter ransomware and phishing
- High-Demand Specializations: Top skills required include cloud security (multi-cloud environments), AI-driven threat detection, identity management, and penetration testing
- Industry Focus: Banking, FinTech, and telecommunications are driving the need for experts to secure digital financial records
Essential Cybersecurity Skills and Certifications
Technical Skills
- Network security (firewalls, IDS/IPS)
- Data protection
- Scripting (Python, SQL)
- Operating system hardening
Foundational Knowledge
- Threat intelligence
- Risk assessment
- Incident response
Valued Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- CISSP
Soft Skills
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Ability to explain technical threats to non-tech staff
Opportunities in Nigeria’s Cybersecurity Sector
Talent Development
The Nigerian government’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program aims to bridge the skills gap.
Lucrative Careers
Entry-level salaries are high, ranging between ₦4 million and ₦6 million annually in Nigeria, with senior roles earning significantly more.
Capacity Building
There is increased focus on training for young professionals, including specific initiatives to encourage women in the sector.
