Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 30 years of experience as a lawyer and investigator, the expert specializes in international human rights and humanitarian law. They have successfully led multidisciplinary teams and projects within prestigious organizations such as the United Nations, International Criminal Court, and African Union. Career highlights include leading EU-funded justice reform projects and investigating human rights violations. With a strong track record in strategic leadership, the expert has managed large teams and delivered high-standard results in conflict-affected regions. Their expertise encompasses legal practice, investigation, prosecution, capacity building, and policy development.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert collaborated with the European Union on a €26 million EU-funded project aimed at justice sector reform in Nigeria. This collaboration involved project implementation, policy development, and capacity building to enhance coordination and access to justice within justice sector institutions. The project had a national scope and was conducted in Nigeria, focusing on governance and rule of law. The expert led a multicultural team, ensuring compliance with donor guidelines and fostering relationships with national partners and other stakeholders.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked across key sectors including humanitarian aid, human rights, conflict resolution, democratization, justice reform, and law. Responsibilities have included roles such as Chief of Investigations and Legal Advisor, focusing on monitoring, investigation, prosecution, and policy development. Their cross-cutting expertise includes capacity building and integrating human rights into governance frameworks. The expert's work spans regional and country-specific projects in Africa, Europe, and North America, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of international legal and humanitarian issues.

With extensive geographic experience across Africa, Europe, and North America, the expert has worked in countries such as Nigeria, South Sudan, Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and the United Kingdom, among others. They possess deep familiarity with local governance and cultural dynamics, particularly in conflict-affected regions. Their recurring involvement in these areas underscores their expertise in regional development issues and their ability to navigate complex international environments effectively.

Languages and education

The expert is a native English speaker and is fluent in Creole/Pidgin and Yoruba, with basic proficiency in French. These language skills have been utilized extensively in diverse international settings, including work in multilingual teams and projects across Africa, Europe, and the United States, facilitating effective communication and collaboration in complex, multicultural environments.

The expert holds a Bachelor of Laws Degree (LL.B) from Ogun State University, Nigeria (now Olabisi Onabanjo University), completed in 1987. They also obtained a Certificate of Admission to the Nigerian Bar from the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island Campus, Nigeria, in 1988. Additionally, the expert earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from Nottingham Law School, Nottingham Trent University, England, in 1995. These qualifications emphasize a strong foundation in legal studies and practice.