Started Small, But Led with Big Dreams
Leading at the Top as an IT Director and Chief Technology Officer
I am the IT Director of Fort Knox Group Limited and the Chief Technology Officer of Telko Managed Services
— Subsidiary of Fort Knox Group Limited.
Over 20 years ago, Alabi Sunday began his career in IT security as an executive. Today, he is the IT Director at Fort Knox Group Limited and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Telko Managed Services, a Fort Knox subsidiary. But his journey was not easy. It was built through hard work, late nights, strong commitment, and a passion for learning. His story is about growth, grit, and global impact.
Early Days: From Executive to Multi-Disciplinary IT Specialist
I started my journey into IT Security about 20 years ago as an executive. I played in so many areas of IT security, information technology to be specific.
Every great journey begins with a single step. For Alabi, it was a humble journey that started with an entry-level job in IT security that sparked a lifelong passion. Since day one, he was eager to learn more, leading him to explore different roles and opportunities. Alabi did not limit himself to a single area of expertise but explored many areas within IT, taking on roles like Database Administrator, Network Administrator, and Cyber Deployment Administrator.
Whether managing networks or deploying complex cyber security frameworks, his hands-on expertise across disciplines gave him the edge in his field, each role he assumed was a stepping-stone that helped him build a comprehensive understanding of the vast IT domain.
A Strong Wake-Up Call: A Security Scare that Sparked the Change
I discovered that there were almost 140 login failures, and that got me worried.
Alabi’s academic journey with ECCU was triggered by the security risk he recognized at work, which led him to a turning point in his cyber security career. One day, he noticed nearly 140 failed login attempts on the system. That moment was a turning point. He realized that without strong cyber security measures in place, the network could face serious threats. That discovery motivated him to act. He decided to pursue a Master of Science in Cybersecurity Degree at EC-Council University with the determination to deepen his expertise and secure and manage the systems in a better way.
A Commitment to Lifelong Learning and Growth
Even on Sundays, I stayed up through the night just to meet deadlines.
A Master's Degree from ECCU That Made a Difference
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity from EC-Council University has impacted me and impacted my career in a very positive way.
The knowledge and skills he gained from ECCU were not just academic but something that had a real, lasting impact on his career. He feels more confident in his role, more effective in securing systems, and more prepared for the challenges of today. The impact of his master’s degree is not just academic but also personal and professional. Along with his degree, he also managed-
- Building Connections: He connected with cyber security professionals, fellow students, and faculty, gaining insights and shared experiences.
- Gaining Knowledge: The program helped him understand cyber security concepts, tools, techniques, and industry’s best practices.
- Earning Professional Credibility: His academic credentials enhanced his credibility and marketability as a cyber security expert in Nigeria.
- Becoming a Thought Leader: Earning a master’s degree led him to receive regular invitations for cyber talks at various cyber security events and seminars.
- Developing Mentorship and Outreach Capabilities: Inspired by the program, he began mentoring others in cyber security and organizing awareness programs in churches and public events.
An Amazing Academic Experience at ECCU
The faculty is top-notch. I’d give them 9.5 out of 10.
His academic journey was backed by strong faculty support and a rich, comprehensive curriculum that kept him updated on the latest tools, technologies, and global trends. Moreover, ECCU’s flexible payment plan made his academic journey easier, allowing him to pursue the program while balancing family obligations and his financial commitments.
Lessons You Can Draw from His Impactful Journey
Alabi Sunday’s professional journey began in a very humble way, from assuming simple IT roles to becoming a trusted cyber security leader, mentor, and speaker. His journey speaks volumes about his commitment, passion, and persistence. His story is a powerful reminder that with dedication and the right opportunities, you can transform your career and your community. His journey offers inspirational and valuable lessons for aspiring IT professionals:
- Do Not Limit Your Expertise: Becoming an expert across multiple domains gave him strategic and operational insight that few possess.
- Keep Learning: Even at the peak of your career, growth comes from staying hungry, humble, and curious.
- Choose the Right Learning Environment: A strong academic institution like ECCU can provide the skills, knowledge, practical training, and mentorship, all with the flexibility of studying anytime, anywhere.
- Work-life Balance is the Key: Managing a family, a career, and academics is possible with the right mindset and support.
Alabi Sunday’s journey is not just a success story but a perfect approach for those seeking long-term success in the field of cybersecurity.
