Hassan Taiwo Gafar: The UK-Based Cybersecurity and Software Engineering Expert Empowering Nigeria’s Next Generation of Tech Innovators
In a world where technology constantly evolves, few individuals bridge technical expertise and a commitment to community empowerment as effectively as Hassan Taiwo Gafar. A UK-based cybersecurity and software engineering expert, Hassan is dedicated to shaping the future of Nigeria’s tech landscape by mentoring aspiring innovators.
Early Fascination with Technology
Growing up in Nigeria, Hassan’s interest in technology ignited at an early age, driven by an insatiable curiosity about how things work. This passion led him to pursue a degree in Cybersecurity and Software Development in the United Kingdom, where he developed pivotal skills in creating secure digital systems and innovative applications, ultimately establishing a flourishing career in the tech industry.
A Flourishing Career Abroad
Throughout his professional journey, Hassan has made significant contributions in areas such as enterprise-grade security implementations, cloud automation, and web application development. His experience not only aids organizations in strengthening their cyber defenses but also enhances the reliability of the software they use daily. Despite his success abroad, Hassan remains firmly rooted in Nigeria’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.
Launching a Mentorship Initiative
In 2021, driven by a desire to give back, he founded a mentorship and training initiative aimed at equipping Nigerian youth with essential skills in software engineering, cybersecurity, and digital innovation. What started as a modest program with just a handful of mentees has since blossomed into a vibrant community of over 240 eager learners. Through workshops, live coding sessions, and hands-on project-based learning, Hassan has created an inspiring platform for young tech enthusiasts.
Transformative Learning Experiences
Hassan’s commitment to his mentees is evident in his approach to teaching. Over the years, he has personally trained and mentored more than 120 students, covering critical topics such as web application security, penetration testing, API development, and secure software architecture. His students have gone on to build secure web applications, data protection tools, and mobile apps, significantly impacting businesses and startups in Nigeria.
A Testament to Success
Hassan’s influence extends beyond just technical skills. Many of his mentees have successfully secured jobs and internships in prominent tech firms both in Nigeria and internationally. For instance, Chidinma Okoye, one of his mentees, reflects on her journey: “Before I met Mr. Gafar, I didn’t know how to start a tech career. He helped me understand coding best practices, cybersecurity fundamentals, and how to grow professionally. I now work as a front-end developer and mentor younger students myself.”
Recognition for Impactful Contributions
Hassan’s relentless efforts and achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, he received the Digital Mentorship and Cyber Awareness Award from the Nigerian Youth Development Council. This accolade recognized his invaluable work in nurturing secure digital literacy and professional development among Nigerian youth.
Advocacy for Secure Digital Practices
Beyond mentorship, Hassan is a vocal advocate for ethical hacking, digital privacy, and secure software design. He has led numerous online seminars focusing on critical topics like phishing prevention, secure coding standards (highlighting the OWASP Top 10), and cloud data protection. By doing so, he has reached over 2,000 participants across ten Nigerian states, raising awareness about the importance of cybersecurity.
Future Aspirations
Looking to the future, Hassan aspires to expand his initiative to impact 1,000 students by 2026. By collaborating with schools and tech hubs throughout Nigeria, he aims to ingratiate cybersecurity awareness and reinforce secure software principles into the learning curricula of young developers. “If we empower our youth to code securely, not only will we foster innovation, but we’ll also protect it,” he emphasizes.
The Essence of Hassan Gafar’s Journey
Hassan Gafar embodies the synergy of innovation and integrity. As a software engineer who builds, a cybersecurity expert who safeguards, and a mentor who inspires, his mission remains steadfast. From Lagos to London, he is on a relentless quest to empower the next generation of Africans to create technology that is not only innovative but secure.
