Welcome, Guest: Register On Nairaland / LOGIN! / Trending / Recent / New
Stats: 3,143,304 members, 7,780,720 topics. Date: Thursday, 28 March 2024 at 08:37 PM

I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything - Career - Nairaland

Nairaland Forum / Nairaland / General / Career / I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything (18606 Views)

How To Begin A Career In Cybersecurity Without Previous Knowledge / Free Cybersecurity Course Worth N240,000 offered by ICSI UK / CyberSecurity: GRC, CYSA+, AWS, CCSK, CCSP, CISSP, CISA, CRISC, CISM (2) (3) (4)

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (Reply) (Go Down)

I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 5:10pm On Dec 20, 2018
It's just another day here, working within the Blue team of one of America's largest IT firm, downing my Cheetos and my Maltina ($6 per bottle).

I stopped biting, ask me anything!!

Cc: lalasticlala, 1forall, CrazyMan

6 Likes 2 Shares

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by tolugar: 5:56pm On Dec 20, 2018
Guy am just here downing my garri and kulikuli (#20 for just 5balls)

My question is?


Will buhari go to daura by road or sea

13 Likes 1 Share

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by IdaraCHODB(m): 6:08pm On Dec 20, 2018
Can I ask my questions in camera?
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Nobody: 6:13pm On Dec 20, 2018
tolugar:
Guy am just here downing my garri and kulikuli (#20 for just 5balls)

My question is?


Will buhari go to daura by road or sea
lol
funny you
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 6:13pm On Dec 20, 2018
tolugar:
Guy am just here downing my garri and kulikuli (#20 for just 5balls)

My question is?


Will buhari go to daura by road or sea
Well, that's funny.
I'll rather stick to the context of this topic!
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 6:16pm On Dec 20, 2018
IdaraCHODB:
Can I ask my questions in camera?

I think it's better if someone else gains more info from a public convo like this.

Tho we can always find alternatives going forward.

3 Likes

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by MPVGoddess: 6:25pm On Dec 20, 2018
I've got relations who are good with computers.

If they wanted a career in cybersecurity in the West, what sort of certifications or learning paths would you recommend and how long would it take to achieve them?

2 Likes 1 Share

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 6:41pm On Dec 20, 2018
MPVGoddess:
I've got relations who are good with computers.

If they wanted a career in cybersecurity in the West, what sort of certifications or learning paths would you recommend and how long would it take to achieve them?

Great question.
Most tribe have a saying that translates to the fact that every bad has an iota of goodness. That being said, I do more of giving out tips, tricks and fastest routes rather than bore you with epistle.

1. Enrol in a school (community colleges are way cheap) and major in CS - computer science.

2. While in school, start preparing for your entry level certifications ( CCNA, CompTIA N+ etc). The interesting fact is how your classes will overlap with some 80% of the certification coursework.

I ll be digging deep very soon!

3 Likes

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 6:46pm On Dec 20, 2018
You really don't have to follow the cybersecurity route. I have a colleague next to me, all he does is write python scripts for days and the rest is story.

Its ideal to be comfortable your area of choosing, while applying these same principles to your expertise: Software dev, Digital design, LPN, Big data analysis, AWS, pen-testing or what ever rocks your boat!

1 Like

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Stan999: 4:46am On Dec 21, 2018
@OP, what would you say about an MSc in information assurance and focus on cyber security @ St. Cloud State University Missouri coming from a graduate of elect/elect engineering?

Next up, is salary expectation dependent on state or firm?
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Lorenzop: 11:28am On Dec 21, 2018
Ayodejioak:
It's just another day here, working within the Blue team of one of America's largest IT firm, downing my Cheetos and my Maltina ($6 per bottle).

I stopped biting, ask me anything!!

Cc: lalasticlala, 1forall, CrazyMan

I am very passionate about Cyber security, I want to major in it....is it OK to self study then go ahead to certification exams....

Can you assist with study materials pls?

1 Like

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Flocky: 10:10am On Dec 22, 2018
This is great mehn! I v been looking for a thread lyk this.

Bro, I have been really interested in cybersecurity but do not know how to start or where to start from. I know cybersecurity z broad but I can't seem to find where to grab hold on first.

Infact, I need a mentor.

1 Like

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 3:38pm On Dec 22, 2018
Lorenzop:


I am very passionate about Cyber security, I want to major in it....is it OK to self study then go ahead to certification exams....

Can you assist with study materials pls?

You know yourself much more than everyone else. If self study is your thing, go for it man.

You remind me of my first certification ever, Usually everyone (even nerds) follow the CompTIA trifecta: CompTIA A+ --> N+ --> S+ but I felt my couple years of work as at then qualified me for a Security+ off the bat without having to go the long route. I gave self study a shot, and I was right!

Don't hesitate to reach out if when you need informational help.
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 4:23pm On Dec 22, 2018
Stan999:
@OP, what would you say about an MSc in information assurance and focus on cyber security @ St. Cloud State University Missouri coming from a graduate of elect/elect engineering?

Next up, is salary expectation dependent on state or firm?
One great thing about studying in US how seamlessly easy it is to port across courses. You can literally be a biology major today then a Licensed pentester tomorrow.

As a matter of fact, my first degree from Nigeria was something close to elect engr but my long nurtured passion propelled me to my IT dream.... So, I'll say 'Go for it!'

Now, compensation is usually dependent on BOTH the state and firm for a simple reason: Big firms have targeted states for their HQs and branches. You won't find a freaking Microsoft HQ in the middle of Iowa, or utah.

That being said, while everybody wants to secure a cybersecurity position in DC, TX, VA, and the rest of the premium cybersecurity US states, it is ideal to start somewhere then climb up the ladder in no time.

1 Like

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Nobody: 10:57pm On Dec 22, 2018
Thanks man bro for been there for us
My question is this :i have taken an entry level certification course on ComPtia A+ and N+ though I lve networking but I want to grab the basics before heading to ccna .please u are more exposed and open to the outside world than us and I believe you have more friends in this field of urs, which of the branches of ccna do you think is relevant and highly needed in today's world over there? So we don't end up picking a branch dat is outdated

And my 2nd question is :is it possible to apply for jobs online and get interview probably tru skype and what site would you recommend please?

And is there any other country in the western world u can also recommend that u feel this career line is highly needed with good pay attached

Thanks man I kindly wait for your reply
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Wonderz1: 6:27am On Dec 23, 2018
Please must i learn programming before i can become a cyber security expert.
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Lorenzop: 9:55am On Dec 23, 2018
Ayodejioak:


You know yourself much more than everyone else. If self study is your thing, go for it man.

You remind me of my first certification ever, Usually everyone (even nerds) follow the CompTIA trifecta: CompTIA A+ --> N+ --> S+ but I felt my couple years of work as at then qualified me for a Security+ off the bat without having to go the long route. I gave self study a shot, and I was right!

Don't hesitate to reach out if when you need informational help.
Wow, thanks bro....any help with study materials?
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by lonzo(m): 7:11am On Dec 29, 2018
Ayodejioak:

One great thing about studying in US how seamlessly easy it is to port across courses. You can literally be a biology major today then a Licensed pentester tomorrow.

As a matter of fact, my first degree from Nigeria was something close to elect engr but my long nurtured passion propelled me to my IT dream.... So, I'll say 'Go for it!'

Now, compensation is usually dependent on BOTH the state and firm for a simple reason: Big firms have targeted states for their HQs and branches. You won't find a freaking Microsoft HQ in the middle of Iowa, or utah.

That being said, while everybody wants to secure a cybersecurity position in DC, TX, VA, and the rest of the premium cybersecurity US states, it is ideal to start somewhere then climb up the ladder in no time.


Hello bro. In the US and I want to route my path in the IT field, networking and security. I would appreciate if you can give me tips, courses and study materials most above all your experiences
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by mclenny14: 10:01am On Dec 29, 2018
mogbojaiye:
Thanks man bro for been there for us
My question is this :i have taken an entry level certification course on ComPtia A+ and N+
which institutes do you recommend to take these certification exams, and where to get good materials here in Nig, I intend to self study and take the exams
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Nobody: 11:41am On Dec 29, 2018
mclenny14:

which institutes do you recommend to take these certification exams, and where to get good materials here in Nig, I intend to self study and take the exams

Bro self study wouldn't help u, if u kw u don't kw d basics, and it's more of an experience to u wen u interact with ur peers at ur learning center (real experience) u don't have to learn for 2 years b4 u do a write up on ur cv dat u have 2 years experience, just 6 months of solid proper
interactions u are good to go,,,,

It not about I want to do self studying bro, ,,register at a center and get real life experience with real tutor, ,,,i don't just buy d idea of online programs, ,,,register at a center and support ur learning with youtube video, am in benin at an IT place called CCT

People say u can check on udemy online for materials

4 Likes

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by DipoToyo(m): 6:49pm On Dec 29, 2018
Ayodejioak:
It's just another day here, working within the Blue team of one of America's largest IT firm, downing my Cheetos and my Maltina ($6 per bottle).

I stopped biting, ask me anything!!

Cc: lalasticlala, 1forall, CrazyMan

How in your own opinion, can Google, Microsoft and Social Media Giants assist youngsters here in the country with "REASONABLE" IT Skills they could LEARN even in class (Secondary School) WITHOUT having to

#1. Pay so much for INTERNET DATA SUBSCRIPTION

#2. Pay so much for such Trainings (aka Scholarship bla bla black)

#3. Spend so much time learning such Skills (as their syllabus is filled with 18th Century Computer Lessons)

#4. Face WAEC, NECO, JAMB.. official assigned to the school, with selfish interest of "WRITING NOTES" - What is Computer, Generation of Computer... Rather than PRACTICAL Trainings?
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by mykeL8888: 11:52pm On Dec 30, 2018
Pls how can I become a programmer and how can I learn the basic part of programing
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by ThatKING(m): 12:06am On Dec 31, 2018
Ayodejioak:
It's just another day here, working within the Blue team of one of America's largest IT firm, downing my Cheetos and my Maltina ($6 per bottle).

I stopped biting, ask me anything!!

Cc: lalasticlala, 1forall, CrazyMan
can you by any means help secure a job here in Nigeria? Thanks in advance
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by CeeKay17: 3:09pm On Dec 31, 2018
How easy is it for a Nigerian residing here to get a Cybersecurity job in US?
I'm presently working as a Cybersecurity Analyst in a private company and I have Security+ & CEH certifications.

1 Like

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 3:10pm On Dec 31, 2018
Apologies for the late response and mentions.
Had to host the family for the holidays.
Now let's get to the parts where questions get answered.
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 3:27pm On Dec 31, 2018
mogbojaiye:
Thanks man bro for been there for us
My question is this :i have taken an entry level certification course on ComPtia A+ and N+ though I lve networking but I want to grab the basics before heading to ccna .please u are more exposed and open to the outside world than us and I believe you have more friends in this field of urs, which of the branches of ccna do you think is relevant and highly needed in today's world over there? So we don't end up picking a branch dat is outdated

And my 2nd question is :is it possible to apply for jobs online and get interview probably tru skype and what site would you recommend please?

And is there any other country in the western world u can also recommend that u feel this career line is highly needed with good pay attached

Thanks man I kindly wait for your reply

Hi mogbojaiye,

First and foremost, I must commend your giant stride towards chasing your IT dream by taking the entry level certification course for CompTIA A+ and N+. Before I answer your question, I want to make a distinct clarification:

Certification body matters so much but unfortunately, many don't even understand - There is a difference between taking a Linux+ or A+ at NIIT or HIIT and actually taking the certification exam by CompTIA. NIIT and co are mere 'middle-men' trying to prepare you for the real exam.
Yes, you get a certificate of completion, similar to completing a freaking JAMB tutorial and getting a signed document stating that, but can you get enrolled into Unilag with this document? Nope!

I like that you mentioned CCNA also. I'm not sure what you mean by the branches of CCNA, but I'm sure this link - https:///2TiTFjq will help you learn more about the certification. If you are planning on writing the exam, In my opinion, the CCENT >> CCNA (ICND 1 &2) which is literally breaking the whole exam into two, looks like a better track.

Speaking from experience, it is very possible to apply for a 100% remote job from Nigeria. Just have these 4 pieces in your backpack: Faith, Mind-blowing linkedin, goodluck/said skills, and lastly 'among many others'

I admin a few blogs, apps, forums and other websites centered at IT which will be beneficial for both starters and seasoned IT professionals.
I do not hoard information so I'll be giving out lots of content for free. Stay tuned.
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Nobody: 4:13pm On Dec 31, 2018
Ayodejioak:


Hi mogbojaiye,

First and foremost, I must commend your giant stride towards chasing your IT dream by taking the entry level certification course for CompTIA A+ and N+. Before I answer your question, I want to make a distinct clarification:

Certification body matters so much but unfortunately, many don't even understand - There is a difference between taking a Linux+ or A+ at NIIT or HIIT and actually taking the certification exam by CompTIA. NIIT and co are mere 'middle-men' trying to prepare you for the real exam.
Yes, you get a certificate of completion, similar to completing a freaking JAMB tutorial and getting a signed document stating that, but can you get enrolled into Unilag with this document? Nope!

I like that you mentioned CCNA also. I'm not sure what you mean by the branches of CCNA, but I'm sure this link - https:///2TiTFjq will help you learn more about the certification. If you are planning on writing the exam, In my opinion, the CCENT >> CCNA (ICND 1 &2) which is literally breaking the whole exam into two, looks like a better track.

Speaking from experience, it is very possible to apply for a 100% remote job from Nigeria. Just have these 4 pieces in your backpack: Faith, Mind-blowing linkedin, goodluck/said skills, and lastly 'among many others'

I admin a few blogs, apps, forums and other websites centered at IT which will be beneficial for both starters and seasoned IT professionals.
I do not hoard information so I'll be giving out lots of content for free. Stay tuned.

Ok bro
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by hadizabala(f): 4:14pm On Dec 31, 2018
I have just one question. Are you a hacker?
Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 4:27pm On Dec 31, 2018
Wonderz1:
Please must i learn programming before i can become a cyber security expert.

If I get a Naira everytime someone asks me this question, I'll be friends with the Joneses by now.

Not all cybersecurity professionals have or need coding skills. But without some knowledge of at least one language, you may find your path forward somewhat limited.

As a cyber security expert, you also get to do code review for applications, you want to be familiar with what inputs are being called, if there are any sort of malicious injection within every line of code and 'the only way to find what you're looking for is to know what to look for' - Ayodejioak.

I can bet you need at least some beginner or intermediate level of programming in the following languages in your Cyber Security Career:
Python, JavaScript, HTML, C, C++, Assembly, PHP

It's also cool to mention how getting the syntax of any programming language is the fastest approach towards learning them.
If you're scared of starting, start with HTML. If you have Basic HTML/CSS experience, I recommend Python. Python is arguably the most useful as well as easy to learn PL in the history of coding. As a matter of fact I learnt basic python in 5 hours watching this youtube video - https:///2vPbMns . It could have been 4 hours but I love to play while working. tongue

4 Likes

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 4:58pm On Dec 31, 2018
hadizabala:
I have just one question. Are you a hacker?

By non-technical definition, the term hacking implies tweaking or making something work in the way it wasn't designed to.
A simple 'hacking' experience in our everyday life can include something considered insignificant as removing the SIM card in your smart phone using a safety pin - The safety pin wasn't designed for that functionality, but yes! it works.

In technical terms, I have abilities to tweak a computer into performing some 'off the record' tasks as a result of my input while leveraging ethics (within a legal, ethical,authorized and controlled environment). Drawing conclusions from both definitions, I am an ethical hacker.

9 Likes

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by Ayodejioak(m): 5:11pm On Dec 31, 2018
CeeKay17:
How easy is it for a Nigerian residing here to get a Cybersecurity job in US?
I'm presently working as a Cybersecurity Analyst in a private company and I have Security+ & CEH certifications.

I might not be able to perfectly communicate the level of ease, but It's definitely a possibility. My first route will be making a number of connections with US based recruiters on LinkedIn. They have access to numerous H1-B's for expatriate employment that don't even go obvious enough to make it into job boards. - Call that express entry

If you have some unique coding, technical or application skills you can easily get a large corp sponsor you on any of these platforms: Kickstarter, Ycombinator, Gitlab/Github to mention a few.

I have a friend who will be enroute to the San area in Cali this weekend. He got an awesome offer with Microsoft, He resumes next week. It's his first trip out of Naija too!

8 Likes

Re: I Am A Nigerian Cybersecurity expert In The US, Ask Me Anything by hadizabala(f): 5:14pm On Dec 31, 2018
Ayodejioak:


By non-technical definition, the term hacking implies tweaking or making something work in the way it wasn't designed to.
A simple 'hacking' experience in our everyday life can include something considered insignificant as removing the SIM card in your smart phone using a safety pin - The safety pin wasn't designed for that functionality, but yes! it works.

In technical terms, I have abilities to tweak a computer into performing some 'off the record' tasks as a result of my input while leveraging ethics (within a legal, ethical,authorized and controlled environment). Drawing conclusions from both definitions, I am an ethical hacker.

The response though. Okay please teach me how to tweak someone else's computer or phone technically.

1 Like

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (Reply)

COVID-19: Unvaccinated Civil Servants Allowed Into Offices In Abuja (Photos) / Should I Continue With The Job Or Resign With Immediate Effect? / Some Moment You Can Relate To In Arms Force Training

(Go Up)

Sections: politics (1) business autos (1) jobs (1) career education (1) romance computers phones travel sports fashion health
religion celebs tv-movies music-radio literature webmasters programming techmarket

Links: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10)

Nairaland - Copyright © 2005 - 2024 Oluwaseun Osewa. All rights reserved. See How To Advertise. 70
Disclaimer: Every Nairaland member is solely responsible for anything that he/she posts or uploads on Nairaland.