After a rigorous 30-hour competition, the team “ShellxRoot” from Côte d’Ivoire has claimed victory at the third edition of the ECOWAS Hackathon. The team secured first place with a score of 510 points and successfully captured five flags in this regional cybersecurity event.
The hackathon, which started at noon and concluded at 6 p.m. Nigerian time, featured participants from across West Africa. They engaged in various “Capture the Flag” exercises designed to test their cybersecurity skills.
Benin’s team “M3V7R” finished in second place, while Nigeria’s “Error” took third position. Beata Hannah Bangura was recognized as the best female competitor for her outstanding performance throughout the event.
The top three teams and the best female participant received certification vouchers sponsored by ECOWAS, laptops from NITDA, and cash prizes. The remaining nine teams were also awarded cash rewards for their participation.
Mr. Sédiko Douka, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalization, praised the participants for their professionalism during the competition. He emphasized the importance of staying informed about cybersecurity challenges and encouraged participants to continue developing their skills.
“The hands-on experience you have gained here will strengthen your skillset immensely,” Mr. Douka stated. He urged teams to advance their expertise in cybersecurity continually.
Mr. Douka also reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to enhancing cybersecurity and building a resilient cyber space in West Africa. “By enhancing the cyber workforce, ECOWAS is contributing to the region’s stability and security,” he added.
Held during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the ECOWAS Hackathon highlights the importance of cybersecurity in West Africa and promotes collaboration among some of the region’s brightest minds.
