In a move to strengthen Nigeria’s digital defense and empower its youth, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with global technology leader CISCO, has launched the 2025 Free Cybersecurity Training Program.
The initiative, announced on October 22, 2025, coincides with the October Cybersecurity Awareness Month and invites young Nigerians to enroll in a range of online cybersecurity courses free of charge. The application deadline is October 31, 2025.
Courses Offered
The program provides access to several industry-relevant modules, including:
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Introduction to Cybersecurity
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Network Defense
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Endpoint Security
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Cyber Threat Management
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Ethical Hacking
Purpose and Vision
According to NITDA, this collaboration reflects the agency’s continuous effort to build a digitally skilled and security-aware population capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s cyberspace. The initiative aims to equip both beginners and professionals with the practical knowledge required to mitigate the growing threat of cyberattacks in an increasingly digital world.
Speaking on the initiative, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, described the partnership as “a key milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward a secure digital future.”
He stated,
“We just signed an MOU with SecDojo, a cybersecurity capacity-building provider, and this training is one of our strategic steps to strengthen national cyber resilience. As Nigeria continues its digital transformation, investing in human capital remains paramount.”
Inuwa further emphasized that cybersecurity has become one of the most in-demand skills globally, and Nigeria, with its large youthful population, is well-positioned to fill the global talent gap.
“Globally, we face a shortage of cybersecurity professionals. With the right training, Nigerian youth can become part of the global value chain, offering cybersecurity expertise and closing existing gaps,” he added.
Building Cyber Resilience Through Collaboration
The NITDA-CISCO initiative complements the agency’s broader mission of fostering technological advancement, innovation, and digital literacy across the country. CISCO, recognized globally for its leadership in networking and cybersecurity, brings its wealth of expertise to enhance Nigeria’s digital workforce capacity.
This effort also aligns with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed earlier in 2025 between NITDA and SecDojo, a French cybersecurity training company, to advance cybersecurity capacity building.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to visit tinyurl.com/NTCYTraining25 or scan the QR code on the official poster to begin registration. Applicants should ensure they complete the process before the October 31st deadline.
A Step Toward a Safer Digital Future
The free cybersecurity training underscores NITDA’s commitment to empowering Nigerians with critical digital skills and creating a safer online environment. As cyber threats evolve, this program serves as a timely opportunity for individuals to enhance their knowledge, boost employability, and contribute to national and global cybersecurity resilience.
