Thriving Through Layers. My Path Across Networks, Business, and Inclusion

In the ever-evolving world of technology, my journey — from a curious kid in Jos, Nigeria, to a mentor and solutions engineer — shows what dedication, curiosity, and ambition can achieve, especially when powered by Cisco.

However, my journey didn’t start with a title. It started with an insatiable curiosity.

My Igbo parents wanted me to study medicine, but I was the kid who opened every toy, radio, and computer — you name it — just to understand how it worked. That raw curiosity and passion for problem solving grew from exploring physical devices to the invisible networks connecting people worldwide, leading me down a path far from stethoscopes and into the vast world of technology.

I spent hours on Yahoo Chat and Skype, amazed at how messages could jump continents in seconds — and realized networking wasn’t just about cables and routers, but about people and connection. That realization drove my purpose.

After secondary school, I knew I wanted to pursue technology, even though I had little access to formal training or resources. But I decided these barriers wouldn’t block me — rather, they would be my blueprints. If no one opened the door, I would do it myself. It’s a mindset I’ve carried with me, and one I share with every young person I mentor: You don’t need permission to succeed.

I began attending local tech events and seminars in Jos and anywhere I could learn something new. It was at one of these events that I met an instructor at the conference, a mentor, who introduced me to Cisco.

That introduction changed everything.

🎥 Watch the video version of my story below to see how curiosity and connection brought me to Cisco and beyond.

My first Cisco Certification Course launched a life-altering journey. Then, I started at Cisco Networking Academy at the University of Jos, where I rapidly advanced from student to trainer, mentoring aspiring network engineers. Joining the global NetRiders competition community during this time sharpened my skills in an international arena. Then, my full-circle journey culminated in earning the prestigious Instructor Trainer Qualification (ITQ).

In 2015, I participated in Hack Jos, a tech event focused on harnessing young talent to build solutions, deepening my commitment to fostering talent and community through connection.

But my transformation wasn’t just technical; it was deeply personal. I showed up early for every class, often before the lights came on. To me, success wasn’t accidental; it was built through discipline, consistency, and hunger.

This drive pushed me to apply my expertise to real-world challenges across Nigeria — supporting critical communications infrastructure and contributing to national digital projects like the rollout of Nigeria’s first Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers administering standardized exams for universities, colleges, and other higher education. Working on large-scale enterprise projects for major telecommunication providers, I honed my skills in routing and switching, wireless, and observability while simultaneously doubling as a technical trainer, responsible for mentoring engineers. Watching them grow and succeed reminded me of my own early days and how vital mentorship is in building Africa’s digital workforce.

Then came one of the most pivotal moments in my career: my official launchpad into Cisco as a Technical Consulting Engineer within the Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, an opportunity I embraced wholeheartedly. I supported partners and small businesses across Nigeria, helping them scale and thrive.

In 2024, I transitioned into the role of Solutions Engineer during the launch of Cisco’s EDGE (Experience, Design, Go-to-Market, Earn) Center in Kenya — a facility dedicated to advancing cybersecurity skills across Africa. I turned down lucrative offers from competitors in the past, so when I stood alongside Cisco leaders including our EVP and Chief People, Policy & Purpose Officer, the Leader of Country Digital Acceleration, and Cisco’s GM for Nigeria, it solidified that this is exactly where I am meant to be — at the forefront of shaping Africa’s digital future with Cisco. My belief in our technology is strong, and, more importantly, our people-first culture is something I carry with me.

To keep up with a fast-evolving industry, I’ve earned certifications including CCNA, and Meraki and Design Specializations, but my CCNP Enterprise journey particularly stands out since I invested my personal salary to take it, failed one of the three exams, repaid and retook it, determined to succeed. Always pushing the boundaries of my expertise, I’m currently preparing for my CCIE.

But my journey isn’t just about personal achievement and career growth; I’ve always believed success should be shared. That’s why I co-founded Netclan with a Cisco colleague — a nonprofit dedicated to bridging the gender gap in network engineering. Through LiNE (Ladies in Network Engineering), we’ve trained and certified over 80 women, some now working with Cisco partners across Nigeria — a proud reminder of the power of mentorship and community.

And as I look ahead, I believe Africa is the next major digital frontier. Our people, talent, and drive are undeniable. But to unlock our full potential, we must bridge the digital divide in opportunity, access, and education.

At Cisco, I’ve found a place that shares that Purpose — one that values innovation, inclusion, and impact. Whether through network design, security, or mentoring, I’m proud to play a part in ensuring Africa doesn’t just catch up, but leads in the global digital revolution.

This is my story — not just of where I’ve been, but of where I’m going, and who I’m bringing along.

Inspired by Chuks’s journey of curiosity, dedication, and impact? Explore careers at Cisco to start a Cisco journey of your own.

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