What penetration testing actually covers
A vulnerability assessment uses automated tools to identify weaknesses. A penetration test goes further: a human tester actively exploits those weaknesses to determine how deep an attacker can reach. The combination (VAPT) gives you the complete picture. For a detailed comparison, see our VA vs penetration testing guide.
Primary testing types
Web Application
APIs, login portals, e-commerce platforms. The most commonly requested type. See our web app pentest guide.
Network
Internal/external infrastructure: firewalls, routers, segmentation controls.
Mobile Application
iOS and Android apps. Particularly relevant for fintech and logistics businesses.
Cloud Security
Misconfigurations, IAM gaps, exposed storage across AWS, Azure, and GCP.
Testing approaches
Black-box simulates an external attacker with zero knowledge. White-box provides full access to source code and architecture. Grey-box sits between the two and is widely used for enterprise engagements. For methodology details, see our tools and methodology guide.
Why Nigerian businesses face pressing risk
Financial services, telecoms, and e-commerce are the most frequently attacked sectors. Speed-to-market pressure has created significant technical debt. Unpatched vulnerabilities, misconfigured cloud environments, and legacy network components are common first-time VAPT findings. For specific vulnerability patterns, see top security vulnerabilities facing Nigerian companies.
The regulatory layer
Under the NDPA, organisations processing personal data for more than 1,000 individuals within six months must conduct DPIAs and submit compliance audit returns. The NDPC has completed 246 breach investigations and issued 11 major enforcement actions. See our NDPR/NDPA compliance guide and our NDPR privacy checklist.
The CBN's Risk-Based Cybersecurity Framework mandates continuous monitoring, incident response readiness, and demonstrable security controls. See our CBN compliance guide.
Ready to scope a penetration test for your Nigerian business?
Get a Scoping CallRealistic costs for 2026
- Web application pen testing: $4,000-$30,000
- Mobile app testing: $7,000-$35,000 (per platform)
- Network penetration testing: $5,000-$25,000
- Cloud security assessments: $10,000-$50,000
- Red team engagements: $40,000-$150,000+
- PTaaS (ongoing): $2,500-$10,000/month
Most standard VAPT engagements run 1-3 weeks. Enterprise-level projects with retesting extend to 30-90 days. For detailed pricing analysis, see our pentest pricing guide.
How to vet a provider
Ask for team credentials, not just logos. The strongest signals are OSCP, CREST accreditation, CISSP, GPEN, and OSWE. For details, see our certifications guide and choosing a pentest company.
- Can they provide a redacted sample report?
- Do testers hold verifiable individual certifications?
- Is retesting included in scope?
- Do they have experience in your sector?
- Are deliverables aligned with NDPA and NITDA requirements?
- Is scope documented in a formal statement of work?
The 72-hour clock starts on discovery
The time to understand your exposure is before that clock starts. Start with a scoping conversation. Most qualified providers will give you a cost range within one call once they understand your environment.
Related reading
Blog: How a Simpa Labs pentest works · Security audit before launch · Security audit timing playbook
Guides: How to book a pentest · Pricing guide · Affordable pentest services
Services: Penetration testing · Vulnerability assessment