Port Harcourt has grown as a thriving tech hub, boosting innovators and growing interest in technology. This makes the launch of Emmanuel Ademakin’s cybersecurity firm, CyberdefleX Limited, a bold entrepreneurial move and a pivotal moment for the region.
Emmanuel Ademakin, a passionate tech enthusiast, aims to address critical cybersecurity needs while fostering local talent and innovation. His journey and vision highlight the region’s untapped potential and cybersecurity’s immense value to Nigeria’s digital economy.
Emmanuel’s decision to establish CyberdefleX Limited in Port Harcourt stems from a glaring gap in the market. While cybersecurity training centers exist, organizations providing security solutions are virtually nonexistent. This discrepancy inspired him to create a platform where theoretical knowledge meets practical application.
The University of Port Harcourt recently introduced cybersecurity as a course. Students must have opportunities to practice what they learn,” Emmanuel shares. His vision extends beyond merely creating a business; he aspires to establish an ecosystem where students and professionals can explore real-world applications of cybersecurity. “It is one thing to read about cybersecurity and another to experience the challenges and opportunities it offers firsthand.
Addressing Key Cybersecurity Needs
In Port Harcourt, many organizations still lack basic cybersecurity infrastructure, often viewing it as an unnecessary expense. Emmanuel aims to debunk this myth by offering cost-effective, tailor-made solutions for startups, banks, fintech companies, insurance firms, real estate offices, and even churches.
“Every organization operating in the digital space needs cybersecurity. From handling sensitive customer data to managing online interactions, the risks are real. We aim to provide affordable solutions that meet the unique needs of each business,” he explains. CyberdefleX Limited is poised to help organizations safeguard their operations while raising awareness about the importance of digital security.
Building a tech startup in Nigeria comes with its fair share of challenges. Infrastructure issues such as inconsistent electricity, poor internet connectivity, and logistical difficulties can be daunting. However, Emmanuel sees these hurdles as part of the journey.
“You can’t focus on challenges, or you’ll never start. Adaptation is key. For instance, we’re implementing redundancy plans and creating self-reliant systems to address power outages and connectivity issues. As Nigerians, we are accustomed to finding creative solutions,” he asserts.
Beyond infrastructure, the lack of awareness about cybersecurity poses a significant barrier. To address this, CyberdefleX Limited plans to host workshops and events tailored to the local audience. Emmanuel is surely making cybersecurity a mainstream conversation, especially in the South-South region, where such initiatives are rare.
Fostering Trust and Building a Legacy
Emmanuel’s primary target audience includes businesses and institutions that manage data and operate in the digital space. To gain their trust, his strategy revolves around transparency and delivering tailored solutions.
We want to be known as the startup that brought the cybersecurity movement to the South-South region, not just Port Harcourt. It’s not about selling services; it’s about providing value and ensuring people feel secure in their digital interactions.
His long-term vision includes expanding to other parts of Nigeria and Africa, but for now, the focus remains on building a strong foundation in Port Harcourt.
Driving Passion and Staying Ahead
What fuels Emmanuel’s passion for cybersecurity is its everyday relevance. “Cybersecurity is something we interact with daily. Explaining its importance through real-world examples makes it engaging and relatable,” he says. To stay ahead of emerging threats, he relies on podcasts, news platforms, and research to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.
For aspiring cybersecurity entrepreneurs in Nigeria, Emmanuel offers straightforward advice: “The more, the merrier. The bad actors in cyberspace far outnumber the good. We need more startups to join this fight. Collaboration, not competition, should be the goal.”
The firm’s short-term goals include creating awareness and hosting workshops in Port Harcourt, with plans for more extensive events in 2025. “We aim to make cybersecurity an accessible topic, bringing in top industry experts and showcasing practical solutions,” Emmanuel reveals.
CyberdefleX Limited is capable of bridging the gap between education and industry, addressing local cybersecurity needs, and fostering trust. Port Harcourt might just be the next big player in Nigeria’s tech scene, thanks to pioneers like Emmanuel Ademakin who dare to dream and act boldly.
