At the Africa Cloud and Security Summit, renowned experts in cloud computing and cybersecurity discussed the rapid rise of cloud computing and the relevance of cybersecurity in Africa for a day of debates and presentations.
The Summit also gathered the best of the tech sector, including policymakers, industry experts, CIOs, ClSos, senior IT executives, and more.
An event organised by dx⁵ (previously CIO Africa) occurred at the Four Points by Sheraton Lagos on Victoria Island in Lagos, Nigeria, on May 2, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.
The topic of the day was ‘Digital Transformation through Cloud Security’. This Summit highlights the influence of these sectors on Africa’s digital transformation and economic development.
The welcome talk by Harry Hare, Chairman of dx⁵, highlighted the benefits of cybersecurity and the detrimental effects of hacking.
Dr. Harrison Nnaji, First Bank of Nigeria Group CISO, highlighted AI and machine learning for cyberdefense. Cyber dangers are becoming more sophisticated and complex, he said. These hurdles overwhelm signature-based defence systems, thus AI and ML help. AI and ML are useful tools, but cybersecurity experts say they cannot replace human abilities.
Amid rising cyberattacks across Africa, he addressed the 2014 Malabo Convention. As the continent’s digital infrastructure grows, cyber dangers have increased, requiring united action. Member states can collaborate and adapt to regional cyber threats under the convention’s cybersecurity provisions.
Read also: Lagos sets up Cyber Security Advisory Board
Panel Discussion 1: Bridging the Cybersecurity Talent Gap
The first panel was moderated by Rahmat Lasis (iAssociate Manager, Verraki Africa) and featured Christopher Odutola (Solutions Engineer, Sophos West Africa), Iyanuloluwa Dada-Akinteye (Director, IOA Integration and Solutions), Christiana Onoja (Co-Founder and COO, Jeme Technologies), Maxwell Nzekwe (CEO, Cimfoni) and Obiora Awogu (CISO, Hydrogen Payments) discussing the cybersecurity talent shortage. The task and opportunity are distinct. We need specific plans to attract, educate, and upskill the next generation of security experts to defend the continent’s digital future.
During the fireside talk, dx⁵ Chairman and Co-Founder discussed cybersecurity as a critical enabler. Cybersecurity, usually seen as an investment to avoid assaults, alters viewpoints. Businesses and governments need cybersecurity to embrace digital potential. When cybersecurity protects consumer data and critical infrastructure, technology is trusted. Trust fosters innovation, investment, and digital economy growth. The discussion becomes lively and defensive.
Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale, Chief Visionary Officer of Digital Encode Ltd. and Technical Partner of CBN-NeFF, also covered cloud computing service models for different needs. IaaS provides virtual machines, storage, and networking. PaaS provides development tools and settings. Top SaaS offers ready-to-use applications online. Select the appropriate cloud service.
Finally, on Get Rid of Expensive Technology!, Abiola Laseinde (CEO, Edniesal Consulting, CIO Club Africa) said the “Human Firewall” protects employees from cyberattacks. As stated in this session, training and clear standards may help your company build a security-focused culture. Staff can safeguard your organisation and make intelligent security decisions when they cooperate.
Panel Discussion 2: Escape the Maze: Avoiding Vendor Lock-In In the Cloud
Idris SogunleInfolab Technology Services CEO, moderated the second panel, with Dr Frances Undelikwo (Fidelity Bank Nigeria IT and Operational Risk Management Division) speaking.
Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale (Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode Ltd cum Technical Partner, Central Bank of Nigeria) (CBN-NeFF), Philip Aiwekhoe (Chief Information Security Officer, NPF Microfinance Bank Plc), and Adeyanju Damilola (IT and Startup Manager, FinTech Association of Nigeria, FintechNG) said vendor lock-in limits cloud initiative flexibility Risks of vendor dominance. Flexible cloud solutions should be multi-cloud, open-source, and contract-negotiated.
Blockchain may transform internet security, according to Tunde Dada (Group Head IT/BCM, inc. digital) in another free side chat. Decentralised blockchains with encrypted, tamper-proof data avoid hacking and provide an audit trail. This enhances identification, communication, and digital asset security. Blockchain, however new, might change cybersecurity in record keeping, commodity monitoring, online voting, and linked gadgets. Though scalability and governance issues exist, Blockchain will protect our digital world.
Cisco’s Cybersecurity Sales Specialist – East Africa, West Africa, ESA, IOI, Angola, Mozambique, Sanusi Sultan, concluded that Next-Gen SOCs respond to shifting threats. AI and automation help them detect and respond to attacks faster. Modern centres prioritise active threat hunting and security system integration.
Panel Discussion 3: Adapting to Tomorrow’s Threats: Evolving Your Cybersecurity Approach
Nurudeen Popoola (IT Manager, Industrial and Medical Gases Nigeria Plc) moderated the final panel, which included Samuel Modupe (Union Bank of Nigeria Head of Security Engineering). Delight Hamilton (Cybervergent Compliance Solution Associate), Funmilola Odumuboni (Deloitte Risk Advisory Partner) Polaris Bank Ltd. Chief Digital Officer and Divisional Head-Digital Bank Dele Adeyinka Tech-Partners Inc. Group CEO Oluwakayode Adigun
Due to intense debate, new dangers and attack vectors emerge in the cybersecurity arena. Organisations must anticipate future difficulties to stay ahead. This requires investing in cutting-edge technology and creating a security-first culture. Businesses may establish a robust cybersecurity posture that can survive sophisticated threats by emphasising continual learning and adaptation.
The event sponsors include SOPHOS, 180°Partner,, 45°partners ,CLC AFRICA, and ManageEngine.
The Africa Cloud & Security Summit was remarkable for cybersecurity and cloud computing prospects. It included a strong lineup of speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors to discuss how new technology may boost growth, security, and innovation in Africa.
