Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 32 years of experience in international development, the expert specializes in private sector development, project management, and youth and women empowerment. Career highlights include leading projects funded by the EU, World Bank, and DFID, with a focus on sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment. Accomplishments include creating over 10,000 jobs and increasing incomes for 500,000 women and youths. Previously held roles such as Project Director and Group Intervention Manager, the expert demonstrates expertise in grant management, business development, and capacity building for NGOs and private sector organizations.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving international donors such as USAID, DFID, World Bank, EU, and the Shell Foundation. The expert's involvement includes project implementation, technical assistance, and capacity building in thematic areas like private sector development, youth and women empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods. These projects have been regional and national in scope, taking place in various countries, including Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and several African nations.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked extensively in sectors including private sector development, agriculture, waste management, finance, and capacity building. Responsibilities have included leadership roles such as Project Director and Business Development Director, focusing on program design and implementation. Their interdisciplinary expertise includes integrating financial inclusion with micro-enterprise development and promoting sustainable green jobs. The expert's work spans regional and country-specific projects, particularly in Nigeria and the broader African context, with a strong emphasis on youth and women's economic empowerment. Geographic experience includes significant work in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Lesotho, and Liberia. The expert possesses deep familiarity with local governance and cultural dynamics, particularly in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, where numerous development initiatives have been led. Expertise extends to regional development issues, having managed projects with both local and international impact.

Languages and education

With a background in languages, the expert is fluent in English, Hausa, and Yoruba, utilizing these languages in various professional contexts including in-country work and collaboration with multilingual teams. English is used extensively in international development projects and communication with global partners. The educational background includes a Master of Arts in International Development Management from the Institute for Development & Policy Management, University of Manchester, UK, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Education (Accounting) from the University of Calabar, Nigeria. Additional certifications include a Certified Management Consultant from the Institute of Management Consultants and a Certificate of Achievement in Youth Leadership Training from Cambridge College, Egypt.