A young Nigerian graduate from the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna), Ilemona Atawodi who recently earned a PhD from the University of Southern Mississippi in the United States, has developed an innovative solution to protect factory data from cyberattacks as part of his research work for his doctorate degree.
Atawodi’s invention utilises blockchain technology to safeguard crucial information used in industrial settings.
According to Atawodi, “Imagine a factory with numerous machines and sensors constantly communicating, sharing data to optimise operations. This interconnected system is known as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). However, like any internet-connected system, IIoT networks are vulnerable to cyber threats”.
Atawodi’s innovation directly addresses this vulnerability by creating a “digital ledger,” a highly secure record book, integrated directly into the factory’s communication system. This ledger, powered by blockchain, meticulously tracks all information exchanged between machines, preventing unauthorised tampering.
“Think of it like a digital fingerprint for every piece of data,” Atawodi explained. “Once it’s recorded in this ledger, it’s virtually impossible to alter without detection. This protects the information from those seeking to steal or manipulate it” he said.
Typically, using blockchain involves connecting to a separate network, which can be costly and slow. Atawodi’s ingenious approach embeds the blockchain directly within the factory’s existing system, making it faster and more cost-effective.
“We aimed to create a solution that is not only secure but also practical for industrial implementation,” Atawodi said. “By embedding the blockchain, we minimise overhead costs and simplify integration.”
This technology prioritises maintaining the “integrity” of factory data, ensuring it remains unaltered. This is crucial for industries that rely on accurate information for critical decision-making.
This achievement highlights the talent being groomed by Nigerian universities. Atawodi’s invention has the potential to significantly enhance cybersecurity in factories and other industrial environments. His success also underscores the contributions of Nigerian graduates to global technological advancements, further exemplified by his recent PhD.
“Earning my PhD has provided me with the advanced knowledge and skills to further develop and refine this technology,” Atawodi added. “I’m proud to have developed this solution and I hope it will make a real difference in protecting industrial systems.”
This development represents a significant advancement in securing vital industrial operations and showcases the talent cultivated at Nigerian institutions like FUT Minna, with graduates achieving remarkable success on the international stage.
