In today’s rapidly digitizing world, where businesses and institutions are increasingly relying on digital platforms to enhance productivity, the risks of cyberattacks have become an ever-present threat. Nigeria, like many other nations, is experiencing a surge in cyber-related crimes, from hacking to phishing, which has led to billions in financial losses for organizations across the country. However, in the face of these challenges, one organization is stepping up to offer a solution: ThinkCyber Nigeria. As a leading cybersecurity training and capacity-building organization, ThinkCyber has been quietly revolutionizing the way cybersecurity professionals are trained in Nigeria.
For years, ThinkCyber Nigeria has been building a reputation as the go-to institution for equipping individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills to combat the growing threat of cybercrime. Through partnerships with global organizations and advanced training tools, they have successfully positioned themselves as leaders in the field of cybersecurity. Recently, they extended their reach by forming a collaboration with Babcock University in Ogun State, underscoring their commitment to nurturing future cybersecurity experts.
Empowering Individuals Through Training
For many professionals, ThinkCyber’s training programs have been life-changing. Emmanuel Nwokike, a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst at First Bank Nigeria Ltd., is one such individual whose career took a turn for the better after enrolling in ThinkCyber’s program. “I came across ThinkCyber’s training in December 2022, and I’m glad I did. The training opened my eyes to the world of cybersecurity, and their ‘zero to hero’ approach was simply transformative. I was able to acquire the skills that Fortune 500 companies seek in their cybersecurity teams.”
Nwokike’s experience isn’t an isolated one. Students, professionals, and even international experts have found a new path through ThinkCyber’s unique approach to training. Sharon Ayajenu Okpoe, a 300-level Information Security student at Babcock University, spoke highly of her own experience: “The technology ThinkCyber uses is incredible. From the CYBERIUM ARENA to engaging scenario-based exams, it has been a rewarding experience. I’m gaining skills that I know will shape my future in cybersecurity.”
From Beginner to Cybersecurity Expert
The beauty of ThinkCyber’s program is its ability to cater to people from all walks of life, regardless of their prior experience in the field. Gbolahan Awe, a Tier 2 Cybersecurity Analyst and Researcher based in Tel Aviv, shared his journey: “I found out about ThinkCyber Nigeria from a Jobberman advertisement in December 2021. At that time, I had no experience in cybersecurity, but with the guidance of the faculty at ThinkCyber, I went from a complete novice to a cybersecurity expert in a short period. Every module was top-quality, and their pre-simulator and Cyberium Arena tools are truly world-class. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend ThinkCyber to anyone serious about building a career in this field.”
For students like Davide Asemota, a 300-level Information Security undergraduate at Babcock University, the transformation has been equally impactful. “In October 2023, I enrolled in ThinkCyber’s internship program, and it has been an incredible journey. The use of AI technology like Specta and the hands-on simulation sessions have given me skills that are in high demand globally. I’ve gone from beginner to junior cybersecurity expert in a short time, and I can’t recommend ThinkCyber enough.”
Closing the Cybersecurity Skills Gap
With Nigeria and West Africa facing a significant skills gap in the cybersecurity sector, ThinkCyber Nigeria has responded with the Cyber Security Talent Pipeline Hub (Cysec TPH). This initiative is designed to equip aspiring cybersecurity professionals with the training they need to thrive in the industry.
According to Ikem Michael Uche, Chairman and Country/Operations Director of ThinkCyber Nigeria, the organization is on a mission to provide world-class cybersecurity training at an affordable rate. “We’ve trained professionals from all over the world using our proprietary CYBERIUM ARENA tool, developed in-house by top cybersecurity experts. Our aim is to give every trainee the opportunity to build a successful career in cybersecurity, whether they’re looking to work internationally or in Nigeria.”
A Gateway to Career Success
ThinkCyber Nigeria doesn’t just stop at training—they help their graduates secure real-world opportunities. Many trainees have gone on to join global cybersecurity firms, thanks to the organization’s strong network of hiring partners. “We match our cybersecurity graduates with hiring partners who are always on the lookout for skilled professionals,” Uche explained. “With the hands-on training and real-world experience they get from our programs, our graduates are in high demand.”
The internship opportunities at ThinkCyber Nigeria are another key part of their offering. Students are given access to global platforms where they can gain hands-on experience in Security Operations Centers (SOCs), making them highly sought-after by employers.
Shaping the Future of Cybersecurity in Nigeria
ThinkCyber’s commitment to nurturing talent is also evident in their SIWES program, which provides 300-level students with six months of industrial training. This program, coupled with their Professional Workplace Certificate, allows students to gain invaluable skills while still pursuing their academic careers.
Upon completion of the program, trainees are awarded internationally recognized certifications such as Think Cyber Certified Penetration Tester, SOC Analyst, and Forensics Professional. These certifications, combined with practical experience, ensure that graduates are ready to take on roles in the fast-evolving world of cybersecurity.
With their innovative training programs, global partnerships, and unwavering commitment to addressing the cybersecurity skills gap, ThinkCyber Nigeria is not only shaping careers but also playing a vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s digital future. As more organizations embrace digitization, ThinkCyber’s efforts will be crucial in ensuring that the country has a robust talent pool to defend against the ever-growing threat of cyberattacks.
