At the end of the second quarter of 2004, the information and communication technology sector of the Nigerian economy had outpaced the contribution of the oil and gas sector to the country’s GDP. This speaks to the increasing growth of the sector that has spawned a number of unicorns in the last decade.

But as the sector continues to expand and its manpower requirement stretches at the seams, many would-be entrants into the industry are often bereft of how they can make an entry.  Enters Wale Oresanya’s SwitchUp Tech Initiative.

He recently led a session focused on cybersecurity and the differences between information security and cybersecurity. The event, titled “Let’s Talk Cybersecurity,” took place on 10 December 2024 and was attended by industry professionals, aspiring cybersecurity enthusiasts, and experienced practitioners.

During the session, Oresanya provided a clear overview of the cybersecurity industry. He stressed the need for individuals to assess their own strengths before choosing a career path in this field. According to Oresanya, cybersecurity is not solely about technical skills; it also encompasses roles in risk management, regulatory compliance, and project oversight. He advised that a proper self-assessment can help prospective entrants determine whether they are better suited to technical roles or to positions that require a focus on management and strategy.

A significant portion of the discussion featured cybersecurity specialist Emmanuel Olaniyi. Olaniyi shared his career journey, explaining that he began his professional life as an incident response analyst before transitioning into a role as a penetration tester. He emphasised that while certifications are useful credentials, they are secondary to practical experience and continuous learning. “Certifications serve as proof that you have learned the basics, but hands-on practice is what builds real skill,” he said. Olaniyi’s remarks highlighted that employers value demonstrable expertise gained through practical exercises and real-world problem solving.

The session also clarified the distinction between information security and cybersecurity. Information security broadly covers the protection of all types of data, whereas cybersecurity focuses specifically on defending computer systems, networks, and digital infrastructure. Many newcomers mistakenly believe that cybersecurity is solely about hacking. In truth, the field offers a range of roles from technical positions, such as security analysts and penetration testers, to non-technical roles involving governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) and project management.

Olaniyi advised aspiring professionals to build a robust portfolio by engaging in practical exercises. He recommended utilising platforms such as Hack The Box and TryHackMe to simulate real-world challenges in controlled environments. Such hands-on experiences are crucial for preparing candidates to meet the demands of the job market. He also suggested that individuals should document their projects and challenges, as this can be a valuable resource during job applications and interviews.

Networking was another key topic during the event. Oresanya encouraged attendees to take advantage of industry events, online forums, and social media platforms like LinkedIn to build professional connections. He explained that networking not only helps individuals stay updated on current trends but also opens doors to new career opportunities. By engaging with peers and experts, participants can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

For those who could not attend the live session, SwitchUp Tech has made the recording available online. The event was promoted by Switchuptech on Twitter and LinkedIn. The organisers plan to continue these sessions, offering further opportunities for learning and networking within the technology space.