Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, has honored Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, with the Excellence Award in Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity Leadership.
The award was presented during a two-day cybersecurity workshop organized by the university’s Department of Information Technology in collaboration with GXT International.
The workshop, themed “Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Ecosystem: Bridging Academia, Industry, and Organizational Practices,” brought together key stakeholders from academia, industry, and government to discuss pressing cybersecurity challenges and collaborative solutions.
A key objective of the workshop was to promote the Cybersecurity programme at Babcock University. Recognizing it as a specialized field, the Department is committed to equipping students beyond classroom theory—developing them to become market-ready and capable cybersecurity consultants even before completing their four-year programme.
In line with this vision, Sycom Integrated Solutions, a UK-based cybersecurity firm, has embraced our mission and expressed readiness to support Babcock University in achieving this goal.
Furthermore, the Department of Information Technology is open to strategic partnerships with industry players and government agencies to develop and implement practical solutions to emerging cybersecurity challenges.
Receiving the award on behalf of Governor Abiodun, Ogun State’s Special Adviser on Information Technology, Mr. Dayo Abiodun, commended Babcock University for fostering discussions on digital security.
He emphasized the state government’s commitment to integrating digital technology across various sectors.
Other notable awardees included Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, who was recognized for ICT Policy and Cybersecurity Advocacy Excellence, and Honourable Tunbosun Alake, who received an award for advancing digital infrastructure and cybersecurity.
Additionally, Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, were honored for their contributions to cybersecurity leadership and youth empowerment.
The Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Odinigwe Daniel Odigie, received the award on behalf of Governor Oborevwori.
Keynote speaker, Mr. Abdurahman Akanbi, CEO of Sycom Integrated Solutions, stressed the urgency of protecting Nigeria’s cyberspace from cyber threats.
He urged institutions to strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks and advocated for better compensation for cybersecurity professionals to deter cybercriminal activities. Sycom Integrated Solutions is a leading UK-based IT consultancy and cybersecurity firm.
Speaking at the event, Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Honourable Tunbosun Alake, spoke about government-funded opportunities for students in technology. He emphasized the importance of character development and cited the success of the alumni that developed Paystack as an example of the rewards of integrity, trustworthiness, and consistency.
Furthermore, Mr. Femi Oluwafemi, Executive Director at MoMo PSB, advised students to develop additional skills beyond their academic curriculum to enhance their resilience in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Dr. Chigozirim Ajaegbu, head of the Department of Information Technology at Babcock University, commended Governor Abiodun for prioritizing digital transformation and appealed for increased support in training students to improve employability.
He highlighted the partnership with GXT International, an EU-endorsed cybersecurity and data privacy organization, as a key step in fostering innovative solutions in the sector.
Dr. Ajaegbu stated that initiatives like this aim to position Babcock University as a reference point for cybersecurity excellence, innovation and talent development.
The event highlighted the importance of stronger collaboration between academia, industry, and government in tackling cybersecurity challenges, reinforcing Nigeria’s digital defense against emerging threats.
