By Goodluck Ikiebe.
The partnership agreement between the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and a security risk solutions organization, Halogen Group, has recorded over 60,000 sign ups in just one week.
The deal, aimed at providing free training in Cyber Security to Nigerian youths, was initially billed to accommodate at least 40,000 youths.
A statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Mr Mohammed Manga, says this has necessitated an upward review of the initial target as a result of the huge interest and response by youth from all walks of life.
"Consequently, the program, powered by Halogen Cyber Hub, the Cyber Security and Digital Technology training arm of Academy Halogen, will now be expanded to provide free training to 100,000 Nigerian youth", It stated.
At the signing ceremony held at the Ministry on Monday, July 21, 2022, the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare, explained that the milestone achievement is intended to further encourage youth participation in addressing Nigeria's myriad of opportunities and challenges in cyber security.
Represented by the Ministry's Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, Dare stated that the training program is very significant and timely, especially as Nigeria has a growing youth population, ready to offer a wide pool of talents in Digital Technology that can be trained to develop and drive technological advancements for the betterment of the nation.
Dare added that, "the program is coming at a time in our national life where government must provide the impetus towards empowering the Nigerian youth for self-reliance".
According to him, “the World Economic Forum’s forecasts indicate that Cybersecurity along with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analytics will now offer great career opportunities to professionals.
"More stringent regulation will see an increased demand for cybersecurity professionals in Nigeria”.
Speaking earlier, the Chief Operating Officer of Academy Halogen, Dr. Wale Adeagbo, noted that the free training was the first phase of the partnership.
Halogen, he said, "is excited again to be at the vanguard of a project that will change the narrative of youth development in a positive way.
After the training, 25 per cent of the participants will undergo certification programs, which will also be co-sponsored by the Ministry and Halogen.
"Internship opportunities will be made available to youths, who participate in the certification program, alongside job placements”.
With over 60,000 youths signing up so far, the initial target of 40,000 registrants is now surpassed by a significant number. In recognition of the huge demand and enthusiastic response among Nigeria youth, the Federal Ministry of Youth & Sports Development and Halogen Group are now extending invitation to even more youths, to accommodate a minimum of 100,000 registrants for the free Cyber Security training program.
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