5 Top Cybersecurity Experts in Nigeria’s Thriving Digital Economy

Nigeria’s digital economy is growing fast. From the third to the fourth quarter of 2023, the ICT sector’s value rose from N7.1 trillion to N8.4 trillion. 

It’s expected to be worth $18.3 billion by 2026. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, says this growth shows a strong future for Nigeria’s digital world. 

However, the financial sector’s quick move to digital makes it a target for cyberattacks. In early 2024, Africa experienced a 20% increase in cyberattacks, the highest in the world, with Nigeria facing about 2,560 attacks every week.

Here are the top 5 Security experts in Nigeria:

Confidence Staveley

Confidence is a noted cybersecurity expert and advocate for female empowerment in tech. She founded MerkleFence, providing elite application security services, and the CyberSafe Foundation, which focuses on training and empowering women through the CyberGirls Fellowship. Staveley, an author and global speaker, has contributed to cybersecurity awareness and defence strategies.

Obadare Peter Adewale

Peter is celebrated for his pioneering work in cybersecurity. Adewale is a Professor of Practice in Cybersecurity and a distinguished technopreneur with accolades including the Forbes Best of Africa Outstanding Digital Trust Leader award. He is the Chief Visionary Officer of Digital Encode Limited and is involved in various educational initiatives in cybersecurity.

Peter Ejiofor

Ejiofor, the CEO of Ethnos IT Solutions, leverages over 15 years of experience in IT security to enhance strategies and solutions tailored to combat cybersecurity threats. His work has garnered recognition and he plays a role in various professional cybersecurity associations.

Samalai Atsen Bako

Samalai the co-founder of GoLegit Cyber Initiative, focuses on cyber literacy and crime prevention. With extensive experience in cybersecurity training and consultancy, Bako actively engages in community outreach and professional mentoring, enhancing cybersecurity practices and awareness.

Timmy Iwoni

CEO of Reconnaissance Technologies is transforming the tech industry with a focus on AI and cybersecurity innovations. His leadership at Blue Sea Travels LTD and previous roles in software engineering have marked him as a tech visionary, continually pushing the boundaries of digital solutions.