By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Nigerian tech innovator Mr. Kessington Ekhaiyeme has been honoured at the second edition of the Global African Diaspora Awards (GADA), held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Golden Tree Banquet in Houston, Texas, USA.

Ekhaiyeme, a respected cybersecurity executive and founder of Kenima Cyber Security, received recognition for his notable contributions to the advancement of the African diaspora. His company also won the Tech Company of the Year Award, underscoring its growing influence in protecting businesses from cyber threats in both the United States and Nigeria.

The event drew over 400 distinguished guests from sectors including oil and gas, technology, healthcare, law, entertainment, and community advocacy. Notable attendees included Miss Chinelo Aniekwu, Miss Grande Georgia USA 2025; Miss Josephine Nwaogu, Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA 2025; and Michael Illesanmi of 90 Day Fiancé.

Hosted by Nigerian comedian MC Elenu and Norway-based Cameroonian MC Charlene—popularly known as the “energy goddess”—the ceremony featured a vibrant red carpet session anchored by Gifty David’s.

Kenima Cyber Security, headquartered in North Carolina, is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) with more than 20 years of experience delivering advanced cybersecurity solutions to small, medium, and enterprise clients across Charlotte, Atlanta, and Abuja.

Ekhaiyeme is widely regarded as an industry thought leader, having led the design of scalable Security Operations Centers (SOC) and deployed cutting-edge solutions across healthcare, ISP, and e-commerce sectors.

Speaking on the significance of the awards, founder and executive producer Obi-West Utchaychukwu said the celebration goes beyond individual accomplishments.

“The celebration of these achievements is not just about individual success; it’s about amplifying the collective voice of Africans across the globe. This amplification is vital in challenging stereotypes, promoting diversity, and creating a more inclusive global society,” he stated.

He added that the GADA platform continues to highlight the resilience, creativity, and excellence of Africans in the diaspora, ensuring their contributions to global development receive well-deserved attention.

The 3rd edition of the GADA Awards is scheduled to hold again in Houston in 2026, ahead of the Paris edition planned for 2027, as organisers work toward rotating the ceremony across major cities worldwide.