Many Nigerians believe that building a successful career in technology begins and ends with learning how to code. But a young Nigerian tech professional’s tale suggests that such perception couldn’t be further from reality.
His journey into the tech industry did not begin with computers or programming languages. Instead, it started with something much simpler – his childhood love for drawing.
“As a child, I loved being creative and artistic,” he recalled. “One of the first things I learned to draw was a car using just nine lines.”
That early fascination with creativity gradually evolved into a passion for design. By the time he entered higher education, greater exposure to technology and the achievements of successful professionals in the industry inspired him to pursue a career in tech.
Today, that decision has transformed his life.
This is the story of Akinwale Peter Olamiposi, a freelance web designer and marketer, amongst other hustles.
Curiosity Before Cash
Unlike many people who enter the technology industry primarily because of its earning potential, he says his motivation was different.
His journey was driven by curiosity rather than financial gain.
“I started learning because I genuinely wanted to understand how things worked. At the beginning, I wasn’t expecting money. I simply enjoyed learning.”
Over time, that commitment paid off as his skills transformed to a reliable source of income, allowing him to support himself while continuing to grow professionally. Despite this, he believes the excitement of discovering new ideas remains one of the most rewarding aspects of working in technology.
The Biggest Obstacle Isn’t Talent
Despite the industry’s opportunities, Peter’s journey has not been without challenges. He described the lack of access to quality learning resources and experienced mentors as one of his biggest career hurdles.
“Finding reliable educational materials is one challenge, but connecting with knowledgeable people who can guide personal and professional growth has been equally difficult,” he stated.
Consequently, he believes that improving access to both technical resources and mentorship would help many aspiring professionals progress much faster.
Tech Is Bigger Than Coding
Meanwhile, talking about an unending misconception he hopes Nigerians will abandon, it is the belief that technology revolves entirely around website development or programming.
According to him, the tech industry is much broader. From product design and digital marketing to cybersecurity, data analysis, artificial intelligence, project management, cloud computing and countless other specialities, technology offers diverse career paths for people with different interests and strengths.
Understanding this diversity, he says, could encourage more young Nigerians to explore opportunities that align with their talents instead of assuming coding is the only gateway into the industry.
Why Mindset Matters More Than Gadgets
When asked what beginners need before starting a tech career, his answer wasn’t a powerful laptop or expensive software.
Instead, he pointed to something much more fundamental: mindset.
According to him, many newcomers focus too heavily on acquiring devices or chasing quick financial rewards, overlooking the most important ingredient for success: a genuine willingness to learn. He emphasised that anyone entering the industry should cultivate an intense hunger for knowledge because technology evolves constantly, making continuous learning essential. He also advises newcomers not to become obsessed with making money immediately.
“The money will come,” he says, but only after developing valuable skills and remaining committed to personal growth.
Looking Ahead
Despite the rapid pace of technological change, he remains optimistic about both his personal future and the future of Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.
Within the next five years, he hopes to establish himself as a leading figure in the industry, with an ambitious goal of earning recognition on the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list.
He is equally confident about Nigeria’s prospects. As more young people gain exposure to technology and digital opportunities, he believes the country’s tech ecosystem will continue to expand.
Although financial rewards attract many newcomers, he says lasting success will belong to those who remain adaptable, curious and committed to lifelong learning.
His own story serves as evidence that a successful career in technology doesn’t have to begin with writing code. Sometimes, it starts with a simple passion for creativity—and the determination to keep learning.
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