The Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), an initiative under the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has opened applications for Nigerian cybersecurity startups to participate in the Startup Exhibition at the International Cybersecurity Conference (ICSC) 2026.
The exhibition will take place during the conference scheduled for October 27–28, 2026, in Abuja, providing selected startups with an opportunity to showcase innovative cybersecurity solutions before government officials, investors, industry leaders, technology experts, and enterprise partners.
Furthermore, the initiative reflects NITDA’s continued commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem while promoting indigenous technology solutions capable of addressing emerging cybersecurity challenges.
Opportunity for Cybersecurity Innovators
The startup exhibition is specifically targeted at Nigerian startups developing innovative cybersecurity products and services.
Furthermore, selected participants will have the opportunity to demonstrate their technologies to key stakeholders capable of supporting business growth through partnerships, investments, commercial opportunities, and institutional collaborations.
The programme aims to increase the visibility of locally developed cybersecurity innovations.
Innovation drives digital security.
Supporting Nigeria’s Digital Economy
NITDA continues to position innovation as a key pillar of Nigeria’s digital economy strategy.
Furthermore, initiatives such as the ONDI startup exhibition encourage entrepreneurs to develop solutions that strengthen digital trust, improve cybersecurity, and support the country’s expanding digital infrastructure.
Technology-driven businesses remain central to Nigeria’s long-term economic transformation.
Digital innovation supports sustainable growth.
Connecting Startups with Investors
One of the major objectives of the exhibition is to create stronger connections between technology startups and potential investors.
Furthermore, participating startups will engage directly with venture capital firms, corporate organisations, development partners, government institutions, and technology leaders seeking innovative cybersecurity solutions.
Access to investors accelerates startup growth.
Strengthening Cybersecurity Capacity
The International Cybersecurity Conference provides an important platform for advancing cybersecurity awareness and resilience across Nigeria.
Furthermore, showcasing local cybersecurity innovations supports national efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure, protect critical information systems, and enhance cyber resilience within both public and private sectors.
Cybersecurity remains essential to digital transformation.
Promoting Indigenous Technology Solutions
NITDA has consistently encouraged the development of homegrown technology capable of solving local and global challenges.
Furthermore, supporting indigenous startups contributes to job creation, technology transfer, economic diversification, and the growth of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
Locally developed solutions strengthen national competitiveness.
Application Process
Applications are currently open for eligible cybersecurity startups interested in participating in the exhibition.
Furthermore, ONDI announced that applications will close on July 20, 2026, after which selected startups will be notified ahead of the conference.
The agency encouraged qualified innovators to take advantage of the opportunity to present their solutions before a broad audience of stakeholders.
Building a Stronger Innovation Ecosystem
The startup exhibition forms part of NITDA’s broader efforts to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship across Nigeria.
Furthermore, by providing platforms that connect innovators with investors, policymakers, and industry leaders, the agency continues supporting the development of a competitive technology ecosystem capable of driving economic growth and digital transformation.
The initiative also reinforces Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading technology and innovation hub in Africa through sustained investment in startups, digital skills, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.
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