Abuja, Nigeria – October 18, 2024 – Cote d’Ivoire’s team “ShellxRoot” emerged victorious at the conclusion of the 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon, securing first place with a total of 510 points and successfully capturing five flags.
The regional cybersecurity event, which lasted 30 hours, brought together participants from across West Africa to compete in a series of challenging “Capture the Flag” exercises designed to test their cybersecurity skills.
In a closely contested competition, Benin’s team “M3V7R” finished in second place, while Nigeria’s “Error” claimed third position. Beata Hannah Bangura was recognized as the best female competitor, demonstrating exceptional talent and skill throughout the event.
The top three teams, along with the best female participant, were awarded certification vouchers sponsored by ECOWAS, laptops from NITDA, and cash prizes. Additionally, the remaining nine teams received cash rewards for their participation.
The ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalization, Mr. Sédiko Douka, congratulated the participants of the 3rd ECOWAS Hackathon, commending their high level of professionalism and dedication. In his closing remarks, Mr. Douka emphasized the importance of staying updated with the latest cybersecurity threats and techniques, urging participants to continue honing their skills.
“The hands-on experience you have gained here will strengthen your skillset immensely,” he stated, encouraging teams to keep advancing their expertise in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
The Commissioner also reaffirmed ECOWAS’ unwavering commitment to strengthening cybersecurity and building a resilient cyber space in West Africa, contributing to global efforts to protect digital assets and privacy. “By enhancing the cyber workforce, ECOWAS is contributing to the region’s stability and security. In an age where cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve,” he added.
