Yobe Hosts Cybersecurity Symposium 2025 to Tackle Digital Threats

By Yusuf A. Yusuf, Damaturu

In a proactive move to strengthen digital safety and confront the increasing landscape of cyber threats, the Yobe State Government hosted the Cybersecurity Symposium 2025, emphasizing the theme, "Contemporary Challenges and Solutions." 

The one-day event, organized by Dr. Kole Shettima, the Office of the Honorary Special Adviser on Policy Delivery to the Yobe State Government, in collaboration with Abdulmuninu Kolo Gulani, the Focal Person on Cybersecurity and Information Technology, attracted a diverse group of stakeholders spanning government, academia, and the technology sector.

The symposium took place at the Ibrahim Geidam Hall of Yobe State University in Damaturu and underlined the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures as the state undergoes significant digital transformation.

IT experts, policymakers, students, and security professionals gathered to discuss critical issues, including data breaches, ransomware, and the pervasive impact of misinformation.

In his opening remarks delivered via Zoom, Dr. Kole Shettima highlighted the event's significance, stating, "As Yobe advances in digitizing governance and public services, cybersecurity is no longer optional but a critical pillar of our development strategy."

In his closing remarks, Abdulmuminu Kolo Gulani said,the cybersecurty symposium aimed to safeguard the citizens and ensure they do not fall victim to cybercrime and other forms of cyberbullying.

He revealed that is why they organized this program in collaboration with Dr. Kole Shettima's office 

"Our goal is to equip residents with the necessary tools to recognize and avoid online scams, fraud, and harassment. 

Key sessions featured presentations on critical topics affecting the digital landscape. Zainab O. Sani, a cybersecurity specialist, presented "The Everyday Cyber Threats We Overlook—And How to Stay Safe (Virtually)," focusing on protecting digital assets and ensuring resilient security. Dr. Musa Usman from the University of Maiduguri addressed the implications of "Fake News, Hate Speech, Social Media, Cyber Safety, and Communal Harmony."

Additionally, Dr. Aliyu Musa Bade of Yobe State University delved into "Social Engineering: Targets, Attacks, Techniques, and Defense Strategies."

The symposium represents Yobe State's ongoing commitment to becoming a leader in cybersecurity preparedness in Nigeria’s Northeast region, aligning with national objectives to bolster cyber resilience.