The Bauchi State Government has trained 100 youths in cybersecurity to strengthen digital protection and create employment opportunities.
The beneficiaries completed a six-month training programme under the Cyber Nations Programme, which aims to increase the state’s participation in the digital economy.
Gov. Bala Mohammed announced this on Tuesday in Bauchi during the graduation ceremony and launch of the Bauchi State Innovation and Startup Act. He was represented by his deputy, Auwal Jatau.
Mohammed described the initiative as an investment in youth development and technological advancement, adding that his administration would use technology to improve governance, strengthen institutions, promote innovation and create economic opportunities.
He said the government had approved a zero-cost policy for wayleave and data charges associated with broadband deployment to expand internet access. He urged telecommunications companies and internet service providers to extend infrastructure to underserved communities.
The governor also called on stakeholders and digital hubs to work with relevant government agencies to implement the Innovation and Startup Act, passed by the Bauchi State House of Assembly in October 2026.
The Director-General of the Bauchi State Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy, Hayyayuddeen Babamaaji, said the graduates had been trained to identify system vulnerabilities, detect cyberattacks and manage security incidents.
Rick Huijbregts, Country Representative of Canada-based Protexxa Inc., urged government agencies and private organisations to offer the graduates jobs, internships, contracts and mentorship opportunities.
He said the graduates had been inducted into the Cybersecurity Experts Association of Nigeria, adding that Protexxa would work with the state government to connect them with potential employers.
Huijbregts said Nigeria needed more than 68,000 cybersecurity professionals to address the existing skills gap.
The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, represented by Aisha Salawu, urged the graduates to uphold professional ethics, continue learning and earn public trust in protecting digital services.
