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.

Through its partnership with ThinkCyber Nigeria, Babcock has integrated cutting-edge technology to offer cybersecurity training that meets global standards.

The collaboration between Babcock School of Computing and Babcock Business School is delivering exceptional training, utilizing a cyber simulator-driven platform to prepare professionals for the evolving tech landscape. This initiative marks a significant milestone in bridging the gap between academia and the workplace, producing graduates equipped with practical skills and certifications that meet industry demands.

In January 2024, 34 third-year students embarked on their Industrial Training program, completing six months of intensive training and graduating as ThinkCyber Certified Cybersecurity Professionals.

This was pioneered by Babcock University School of Computing under the leadership of the former Dean, Prof. Idowu Sunday, a Professor of Software Engineering currently on sabbatical at an Adventist University in Rwanda.

Under the leadership of Prof. Ishola Akintoye, Babcock Business School also launched an Advanced Professional Cyber Simulator Training in September 2024, designed to cater to Africa’s growing tech sector.

The program has attracted both local and international MSc professionals in cybersecurity, offering them an unmatched opportunity to hone their skills.

The training at Babcock signals a new era in academic and industry collaboration, equipping professionals with both practical skills and certifications that integrate them into esteemed regulatory bodies like the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN). Additionally, the multi-vendor exposure—covering tools such as Elastic Search, SPLUNK, Snort, and Pfsense etc. —ensures that participants are well-prepared to leverage career opportunities both locally and internationally.

Our alumni success stories speak volumes. Graduates of the program hit the ground running from their first day on the job and are positioned as Tier 2 Cybersecurity Professionals, seamlessly transitioning into the workforce. Explore their stories and see the impact of this training on their careers.

Basit Balogun, Cybersecurity Professional

I was introduced to ThinkCyber Nigeria during a seminar at my workplace, and since then, my experience with them has been extraordinary. From the initial sessions to the advanced Cyberium Arena challenges, each step of the journey has been truly transformative. The high quality of the modules exceeded my expectations, rapidly transitioning me from a cybersecurity novice to an enthusiast. The guidance and support from the ThinkCyber Nigeria faculty have been invaluable throughout. For anyone considering a career in cybersecurity or seeking to transition into the field, I highly recommend ThinkCyber Nigeria. Their comprehensive programs and dedicated instructors make them the ultimate choice for cybersecurity professionals. With ThinkCyber Nigeria, you’ll find everything you need to succeed in the field.

Oluwademilade Adeyemo, Cybersecurity Professional

Hello, I’m Oluwademilade Adeyemo, and I’m excited to share my experience at The Cyberium Arena with ThinkCyber Nigeria.

The Cyberium Arena isn’t just about studying—it’s about diving deep into the world of cybersecurity. Through hands-on projects and interactive learning, I’ve not only absorbed knowledge, but I’ve also discovered my passion for securing digital landscapes.

The tech at Cyberium Arena? Absolutely mind-blowing.

From virtual labs to immersive simulations, every tool made learning feel like an adventure. It’s like having a cyber playground where I can explore, experiment, and expand my skills.

Now, let’s talk about those scenario exams. They’re not your typical tests. In fact, they are real-world simulations that put your skills to the ultimate test.

The Cyberium Arena is more than just a training ground; it’s a launchpad for your career. Trust me, the journey is worth every second.

This program is not just about education; it’s about preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals to lead Africa and the world into a more secure digital future.

Afolabi said this at an interactive session with the 2022 graduating students of the Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State. 

The SIFAX Group Chairman who was represented at the occasion by Mr. Bode Ojeniyi, Group Executive Director (GED), SIFAX Group, admonished the students not to be deterred or intimidated by challenges that life would throw their way.

He said: “Challenges are part of life and it is practically impossible to avoid them. You can’t avoid challenges if your ultimate goal is to succeed, either in career, marriage or business. You need to believe in yourself because you are endowed with all you require to excel. You must also take self-development seriously. Don’t be comfortable with the level of knowledge you have. Keep seeking for more. The more you know, the more likely you are to succeed”.

“Having a solution-oriented mindset is also critical. When you encounter a difficulty or problem, ability to generate solutions, rather than lamentations set people apart. When you are reputed for this kind of thinking, achieving success will be easier, as colleagues, bosses and clients would trust you more and avail you greater responsibilities that would account for your rise.” 

Afolabi further commended the university for organizing the event where the graduating students interacted with successful professionals and captains of industries. 

Other speakers at the event include Mr. Kunle Elebute, Chairman, KPMG Africa, Dr. Babatunde Ipaye, former Consultant, World Bank, Dr.(Mrs) Abimbola Abolarinwa of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Pat Utomi and Mr. Ademola Adebise, Managing Director, Wema Bank, among others.

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