How Nigerian Cybersecurity Expert Collins Okafor is Making Cyberspace Safer for Women Leaders

Oluchi Chibuzor

In the high-stakes world of corporate leadership, a new battleground has emerged: the digital domain. For women in positions of power, this space is fraught with unique dangers, from targeted harassment to sophisticated impersonation attacks. One Nigerian cybersecurity expert, Collins Okafor, has made it his mission to change that.

Okafor, whose work has been recognized across North America, is the visionary behind SecuriHer, a groundbreaking AI-powered platform designed to provide personalized cybersecurity for women in leadership. The project is being hailed by industry leaders as a contribution of major significance, addressing a critical gap that standard security solutions have long ignored.

“What Collins is building is more than just software; it’s a shield,” a CEO of a U.S.-based technology firm and collaborator on the project noted. “He understood that the threats are different, more personal, and require a more intelligent, adaptive defense. It’s a visionary approach that is long overdue.”

But Okafor’s impact isn’t confined to code. He is a celebrated mentor and advocate, a role that has earned him widespread respect and national recognition. In 2023, he was honored with the Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) Allyship Award, a prestigious American accolade celebrating his dedication to fostering a more inclusive and supportive tech community.

Peers describe him as a “true ally in action,” a leader who consistently works to open doors for others. His passion for mentorship is a core part of his identity. He founded the mentorship program for the WiCyS Houston Affiliate and extends his guidance internationally, serving as a mentor for the WiCyS West Africa Affiliate, helping to cultivate talent across the continent.

“He doesn’t just talk about change; he builds it,” said a U.S.-based expert who co-founded a professional cybersecurity chapter with him. “Whether he is designing a new security framework or mentoring a young professional, his goal is always to empower people. He is a true leader.”

From developing cutting-edge technology to championing the next generation of talent, Collins Okafor is not just a cybersecurity expert; he is a protector, an advocate, and an inspiration, proving that the most powerful innovations are those driven by a deep sense of purpose.