Africa’s Cybersecurity Visionary Recognized Globally
Dr. Fene Osakwe, a prominent figure in cybersecurity and Chairman of the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, has been named Cybersecurity Leader of the Year 2026 at the Global Cyber Awards. This accolade underscores his significant influence within the industry across Africa and beyond.
Competition Highlights Global Recognition
Attracting nominees from over 50 countries, the Global Cyber Awards exemplify the international scale and prestige of this competition. Dr. Osakwe’s win is historic, marking him as the first Nigerian to receive this recognition in the Cybersecurity Leader of the Year category, which includes nominees from India, the UAE, Greece, the UK, the US, China, and Malaysia.
Lagos State Government Applauds Achievement
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised Dr. Osakwe’s achievement as a testament to the state’s commitment to prioritizing cybersecurity. He expressed that the vision of transforming Lagos into a global financial hub necessitates a robust cybersecurity framework, a goal actively pursued by the council under Dr. Osakwe’s guidance.
Accolades for Outstanding Leadership in Cybersecurity
The Cybersecurity Leader of the Year Award honors individuals who have showcased exceptional leadership, made a tangible impact, and played a crucial role in nurturing the cybersecurity sector. This accolade recognizes those who not only innovate and strategize but also contribute to the development of the cybersecurity profession through mentorship and professional support.
A Distinguished Career in Cybersecurity
Dr. Osakwe launched his career at Deloitte in Lagos, laying a strong groundwork in cybersecurity, risk management, and advisory services. His expertise has gained global recognition, particularly in leading cybersecurity initiatives for multinational corporations listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), while simultaneously advising boards and executive teams across various regions.
Driving Cybersecurity Governance in Lagos
As Chairman of the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, Dr. Osakwe has been instrumental in fortifying cybersecurity governance in Africa’s largest digital and technology hub. His leadership led to the release of pioneering corporate cybersecurity guidelines, aimed at enhancing organizational cyber hygiene, fortifying incident response strategies, and aligning with global best practices.
Commitment to Mentorship and Education
Dr. Osakwe is dedicated to fostering the growth of future cybersecurity professionals. He supervises master’s candidates at the Universities of Aberdeen and Westminster, ensuring the emergence of the next generation of leaders in this critical field. His thoughts have been featured in major publications such as Forbes, where he shares his insights on cybersecurity strategy, leadership, and digital transformation.
Significance of the Cybersecurity Awards
Founded in 2014, the Cyber Security Awards celebrate outstanding individuals, teams, and organizations in the cybersecurity realm. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, the awards maintain strict independence, affirming that all decisions are merit-based, ensuring that winners represent the pinnacle of achievement in cybersecurity.
A Milestone for Nigeria and African Cybersecurity
Dr. Osakwe’s recognition as the 2026 Cybersecurity Leader of the Year is a momentous occasion for both Lagos State and the broader African cybersecurity landscape. For Lagos, it reinforces its evolving status as Africa’s leading digital center, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance cyber governance and resilience. For Nigeria and the African continent, this honor signifies growing global acknowledgment of African technology experts and showcases Africa’s burgeoning role in shaping global discussions surrounding technology governance, strategy, policy, and innovation.
