October 18.2025
3 Minutes Read

Championing Cybersecurity Awareness: Aliyu Usman's Vision for Nigeria

Survey on cybersecurity awareness with a focus on the 'No' option.

Empowering the Next Generation in Cybersecurity

Aliyu Ibrahim Usman, the founder of the Cyber Cadet Academy in Nigeria, embodies a pioneering spirit that seeks to transform the Nigerian cybersecurity landscape. His journey began at the tender age of 14 when he discovered his knack for hacking—not out of malice but from a desire to understand systems better. At 23, Usman is not only a hacker; he's an educator and a catalyst for change, aiming to inspire others to appreciate the importance of cybersecurity.

Why Cybersecurity Awareness is Essential

Usman's commitment to raising cybersecurity awareness stems from a recognizably urgent need. "There are so many people who don't have basic cybersecurity knowledge and how it can impact their lives," he asserts. This sentiment echoes across Nigeria, where many continue to fall victim to cybercrimes—including fraudulent scams and identity theft. The statistics reveal a troubling truth: cybercrime is rampant, and the understanding of preventive measures is disturbingly low.

Bridging the Knowledge Gap

The establishment of the Cyber Cadet Academy marks a crucial investment in education and training for young people. The academy not only focuses on imparting technical skills but also on changing perceptions about cybersecurity careers. Usman emphasizes that everyone should have basic cybersecurity knowledge, noting, "I investigated cases where someone will just call and ask for their OTP [one-time password] and that's basic. People need to know what that means." By equipping students with essential skills, he aims to foster a generation prepared to combat cyber threats effectively.

The Role of Conferences in Cybersecurity Growth

This month, Usman spearheaded the inaugural BSides cybersecurity conference in Kano, uniting students with critical stakeholders, including governmental agencies like the Nigeria Police Force. Conferences like BSides are crucial as they highlight the vast knowledge gaps that still exist in the cybersecurity realm. Participants not only learn from industry experts, but they also begin to recognize the importance of collaborative efforts in combating cyber threats.

A Vision for Nigeria's Digital Future

Usman's vision to grow the Cyber Cadet Academy into Africa's leading cybersecurity institution underscores a wider ambition—not just for himself but for the nation. He seeks to create a self-sustaining environment where young Nigerians can foster their skills in a supportive, resource-rich setting. With the right focus on educational investment, Nigeria could transform not only its image but also its capacity to defend against cyber assaults.

Challenges Ahead for Cybersecurity in Nigeria

Despite Usman's endeavors, the path toward a robust cybersecurity framework in Nigeria is fraught with obstacles. As highlighted in discussions about Nigeria's cybersecurity strategy, there remains a pressing need for the establishment of a dedicated cybersecurity agency that can oversee national efforts and implement preventive measures effectively. Without such institutions, cybersecurity training and awareness initiatives may struggle to achieve their full potential.

Call to Action: Engage in Cybersecurity Awareness

The charge is clear: Nigerians must take cybersecurity seriously, fostering workshops, conferences, and training programs to instill knowledge and awareness throughout the community. By supporting emerging initiatives like Usman's Cyber Cadet Academy, individuals can contribute to a much-needed shift toward prioritizing digital safety. Each of us has a role to play in ensuring that our society becomes resilient against cyber threats.

Cybersecurity Corner

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