Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 22 years of experience in agriculture and rural development, the expert is adept in agricultural economics, production planning, and consultancy. Career highlights include leading the Integrated Cassava Project and serving as a research consultant for international initiatives with organizations such as IFAD and USAID. Previously held roles include Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director at FUTO Farms Ltd, where responsibilities have included leadership in education, research, and community service. The expert has contributed significantly to sustainable agriculture and climate change research, presenting findings at international conferences and publishing extensively in academic journals.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with international donors such as the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Department for International Development (DFID). The expert's involvement has included research consultancy, project coordination, and evaluations within the agricultural sector. These projects were national in scope, focusing on agricultural value chains and policy assessments in Nigeria, specifically targeting regions like Taraba and Ebonyi States.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a background in education, agriculture, environment and climate, food systems, and livelihoods, the expert has operated extensively within these sectors. Responsibilities have included senior lecturing, farm management, and consultancy, with a focus on teaching, research, and project coordination. The expert has cross-cutting expertise in integrating sustainable practices within agricultural economics and rural development. The work is primarily country-specific to Nigeria, focusing on enhancing agricultural productivity and addressing climate change impacts. The expert has extensive experience in Nigeria, particularly in the southeastern regions, including Imo State. This work encompasses local governance and agricultural development, with significant contributions to projects focused on rural development and agricultural economics.

Languages and education

Possessing full professional proficiency in English, the expert demonstrates strong communication skills in both written and spoken contexts. This proficiency supports work in academia, research, and international collaborations, enabling effective participation in multilingual teams and presentations at international conferences. The expert holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Production and Environmental Economics obtained in May 2014 from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria. Additionally, an M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics was earned from the same institution, completed in January 2007. The academic journey began with a B.Agric.Tech. in Agricultural Economics, awarded by the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, in January 2000.