Research Fellows

As a Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CCSA), Dr Steve brings extensive cross-sector expertise in integrated geoscience, energy systems, and legal-regulatory frameworks to support the development and implementation of sustainable water projects. His work focuses on increasing the value of water through private sector engagement, innovative financing, and the promotion of local enterprise within climate-resilient agricultural systems. With a strong foundation in geophysical data interpretation and mapping, Dr Steve applies advanced tools and methodologies to assess groundwater resources and support evidence-based planning for irrigation and water access. His background in energy technologies and new venture evaluation ensures that projects are not only scientifically sound but also commercially viable and aligned with local socio-economic development goals. A core area of his expertise lies in the legal and regulatory assessment of water law and policy, particularly in the context of enabling private sector participation in water infrastructure and services. He provides advisory support to governments, development partners, and businesses in aligning water governance with climate-smart agricultural objectives. Dr Steve has led and contributed to a wide range of projects across Africa and internationally, including: Successful oil and gas exploration initiatives Establishment of international venture offices Interdisciplinary consulting on water-energy-agriculture nexus projects Drafting and supporting the implementation of water project proposals in developing countries He is also an accomplished researcher and author, with published case studies and papers addressing the interface of natural resource law, energy development, and rural water systems. As part of CCSA’s mission, he contributes to mentoring young professionals and delivering training for capacity building in climate-smart water and energy management. Dr Steve's ongoing work at CCSA supports integrated water-energy-agriculture innovation to drive resilient food systems, unlock investment opportunities, and foster sustainable livelihoods across Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.

Dr Munzali Dayyabu is an experienced agricultural development expert with over 15 years of work in community mobilisation, capacity building, and advocacy across Nigeria. He has worked with organisations such as UNICEF, USAID, NACOTAN, and IRNS to improve rural agriculture and empower farming communities. As National Vice President of the National Cotton Association of Nigeria since 2015, he has supported smallholder cotton farmers and agricultural policy development. He also serves as National Youth Leader for the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, promoting youth engagement in modern, sustainable farming. Previously, he coordinated the Growth Enhancement Support Scheme (GESS) in Kano State, helping farmers access inputs and subsidies through digital platforms. In his role as Senior Administrative Manager at Tauraco Nigeria Ltd, he supports agricultural and community-based initiatives. Dr Munzali has led several impactful projects, including a grassroots coalition under the COMPASS Project, a baseline agricultural survey with IITA/FARA, and the production of “Gidan Bene,” a radio drama on farming and health. He has also developed communication strategies for immunisation campaigns in rural communities. His expertise includes agricultural media outreach, research and impact assessments, and rural communication using radio and TV. He has delivered training in community engagement and interpersonal communication for health and agriculture. He is a member and fellow of several professional bodies including NACOTAN, AFAN, IPMA, IPSS, and the Institute of Sustainable Development. Dr Munzali holds a diploma in Mass Communication from Bayero University Kano, an HND in Business Administration from Kano State Polytechnic, and a professional certificate from the Nigerian College of Accountancy. His work has earned him multiple recognitions, including a Distinguished Merit Award from the Jigawa Youth Parliament and an honorary doctorate in Political Science and Leadership.

Samuel Ubido is the Chairman of TechInnovate Group, a leading company that collaborates with governments on strategic business initiatives, driving innovation and digital transformation. He has extensive experience on the board of PwC Entrepreneurship, where he contributed to shaping the future of entrepreneurial ventures globally. An Oxford University scholar in Software and System Security, Samuel has also completed the prestigious Innovation and Enterprise Fellowship program at the University of Oxford. His academic background is complemented by hands-on experience advising multiple start-ups and their portfolio companies, offering strategic guidance to help them navigate the complexities of the fintech landscape. Samuel's expertise extends to advising governments and companies on cybersecurity, where his deep understanding of software and system security plays a crucial role in helping organizations safeguard their digital assets. This advisory role is particularly important in today's increasingly complex and interconnected digital world. Currently, Samuel serves as a Venture Partner at First Circle Partners, an investment firm focused on the African fintech ecosystem. His deep knowledge of fintech and emerging markets, particularly in Africa and Saudi Arabia, has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation within the sector. Samuel's commitment to fostering innovation is further evidenced by his advisory roles across various start-ups, where he leverages his expertise to mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs. His experience and insights make him a valuable resource for start-ups seeking to scale and succeed in the competitive fintech environment.

Chigozie Okwara is a dynamic leader at the intersection of government policy, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. With a strong track record in public sector advisory, technology driven solutions, and agribusiness innovation, he is committed to fostering economic growth, job creation, and industrial transformation. Chigozie Okwara thrives on solving complex challenges—whether in government, business, Information Technology or agriculture. His expertise in policy development, investment strategy, and technology-driven solutions positions him as a key driver of Nigeria’s industrial and economic transformation

Engr. Hakeem Bolaji Olugbode is a results-driven professional with over a decade of experience in Management System Auditing, Quality Assurance, and Regulatory Enforcement across various sectors. His expertise spans industries such as Oil & Gas, Banking, Insurance, and Agriculture, with a notable focus on driving systemic improvements and ensuring compliance with international standards. A certified Lead Auditor in multiple ISO standards, including Quality Management, Environmental Management, Occupational Health and Safety, and Energy Management, Hotel Management Systems, Automotive Management and Food Management Systems. He has earned a distinguished reputation for excellence in his field. In addition to his wide-ranging experience in standardization and quality assurance, Engr. Olugbode has made a significant and lasting contribution to the agricultural industry in Nigeria. As a special assistant(Technical) in the Office of the Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Agriculture, he plays an instrumental role in supporting the Nigerian government’s efforts to ensure food security and modernize the agricultural sector. During his tenure, Engr. Olugbode is involved in pivotal projects such as the Green Imperative Project (GIP)and Green Money Project (GMP) amongst others. These initiatives designed to transform Nigeria's agricultural landscape by promoting mechanized farming, increasing agricultural productivity, and improving the livelihoods of farmers. Engr. Olugbode is actively involved in shaping the long-term strategic direction for the agricultural sector, supporting the development of policies that encourage sustainable farming practices, financing opportunities, and capacity-building for farmers. His deep understanding of agricultural value chains and his role in facilitating effective project execution made him a key player in driving these initiatives to success. With a robust academic foundation, including a MSc in Engineering with Business Management, BEng in Mechanical Engineering both from Kings College London and MBA in International Agribusiness and value chain management and certification as a Lead Auditor in various ISO management systems, Engr. Olugbode combines technical knowledge with strategic management skills. His ability to bridge the gap between industry standards, regulatory frameworks, and practical solutions has enabled him to make a tangible impact on the Nigerian agricultural sector.

Mustapha Shehu is the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Development Management Board, Nigeria, with over 20 years of public and private sector experience spanning project coordination, monitoring and evaluation, and education planning. His expertise covers strategic education frameworks like MTSS, SESP, and SESOP, with a focus on Education Management Information Systems (EMIS) and the implementation of IT solutions in education. Mustapha has held key roles in projects funded by UNICEF, the World Bank, and UNFPA, including serving as State Project Coordinator for AGILE and the Girls Education Project. He brings deep knowledge of environmental and social safeguards, procurement, and resettlement action plans, ensuring compliance and sustainability in development initiatives. Passionate about youth capacity-building, he promotes SDGs, life skills, and gender-based violence prevention. Mustapha is a technical partner to NIPSS, a member of the British Chartered Institute of IT, and an alumnus of the International Institute for Education Planning (UNESCO) and multiple executive programs at the London Business School. His contributions extend to national curriculum review, ESMP/ESIA development, and results-based management in education reform.

Ephraim Okon is a renowned project director, researcher, and expert in Strategic and Development Communication. With over 16 years of experience managing wide-ranging multimedia communications projects at Population Media Center (PMC) in Nigeria, he has successfully overseen multimillion-dollar projects on reproductive health, maternal and child health, gender-based violence, peacebuilding, social cohesion, and women's empowerment. A prolific researcher and author, Dr. Okon has published numerous papers and articles in reputable journals and conferences. His work has been recognized with dozens of awards, a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field. As the Country Director of PMC in Nigeria, Dr. Okon has implemented various social behavior change initiatives, built partnerships with donors and government agencies, and represented PMC in national and international forums.