One of Africa’s most influential cybersecurity leaders and Chairman of the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, Dr Fene Osakwe, has won the Cyber Security Leader of the Year 2026 at the Global Cyber Award.

The award drew nominees from over 50 countries. Within the cyber security leader of the year category, there were nominees from India, the UAE, Greece, the United Kingdom, the United States, China, and Malaysia, making Osakwe becoming the first Nigerian to win this distinguished honour.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hailed Osakwe’s victory as a “solid demonstration of the state’s efforts to give the cyber security battle the attention it deserves.”

“Our plan is for Lagos State to be the global financial hub and this requires a strong cybersecurity infrastructure – a dream which the Council shares and pursues vigorously,” the governor said.

The award recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, delivered measurable impact, contributed to the growth of the cybersecurity industry, and invested significantly in developing others through mentorship and professional support. It celebrates leaders who not only drive innovation and strategy but also help shape the future of the cybersecurity profession through thought leadership, influence, and service.

Osakwe began his career at Deloitte in Lagos, Nigeria, where he built a strong foundation in cybersecurity, risk management, and advisory services. Over the years, he has grown into a globally recognised figure, leading cybersecurity for a multinational organisation listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and advising boards and executive teams across multiple continents. Today, he is a professor of Practice in Cybersecurity, a highly sought-after international speaker, and a respected voice on digital trust, cyber governance, and national cyber resilience.

As Chairman of the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Council, Osakwe has played a pivotal role in strengthening cybersecurity governance for Africa’s largest digital and technology hub. Under his leadership, Lagos State recently published its Cybersecurity Guidelines for Businesses, a landmark framework designed to help organisations improve cyber hygiene, enhance incident readiness, and align with global best practices.

Osakwe is deeply committed to mentorship and capacity building. He mentors master’s students in cybersecurity at the University of Aberdeen and the University of Westminster, helping to shape the next generation of cyber professionals.

He is also a respected thought leader, with several publications featured on Forbes, where he shares insights on cyber strategy, leadership, and digital transformation.