The Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CCSA), Cosmopolitan University, is pleased to announce the appointment of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Rislan Abdulazeez Kanya, to the Advisory Board of the Nigeria–Central Europe Chamber of Commerce (NCECC).

Dr. Kanya, who also serves as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Cosmopolitan University, brings valuable experience in digital technology, institutional leadership, innovation and sustainable development to the Board. His appointment reflects his professional contributions and commitment to using technology and innovation to support development in Nigeria.

The inauguration of the NCECC Advisory Board took place on 6 December 2025 at Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja. The Board brings together respected Nigerians with experience in public service, business, law, technology, energy, education and diplomacy.

Its establishment is aimed at providing strategic guidance to the Chamber as it works to strengthen trade and investment relations between Nigeria and Central Europe.

Dr. Rislan Kanya’s Contribution to Technology and Sustainable Development

As CEO of CCSA and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Cosmopolitan University, Dr. Kanya has contributed to initiatives that promote digital transformation, research, innovation and the use of technology to address development challenges.

His experience in Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D), information systems, enterprise architecture and project management aligns with the NCECC's efforts to build stronger international partnerships and promote technology-driven development.

At CCSA, his leadership supports the Centre's commitment to advancing climate-smart agriculture through research, digital solutions, capacity building and partnerships. These efforts aim to strengthen agricultural practices, improve resilience to climate change and create opportunities for farmers, young people and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

His appointment to the NCECC Advisory Board also provides an opportunity to strengthen connections between technology, education, agriculture and international cooperation.

Meet the NCECC Advisory Board Members

Alongside Dr. Rislan Abdulazeez Kanya, the NCECC Advisory Board includes six other distinguished Nigerians whose experience spans public service, business, law, energy, education and diplomacy.

The appointed members are:

1. Dr. (Mrs.) Dere Josephine Awosika, MFR, mni – A respected business leader and former Federal Permanent Secretary. She previously chaired the board of Access Bank Plc and serves as Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic in Lagos.
2. Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara – Former Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria, a lawyer and an experienced legislator with a background in governance and international commercial law.
3. Dr. Jamil Isyaku Gwamna (Sardaunan Gombe) – Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO), with experience in the energy sector, infrastructure investment and utility management.
4. Alhaji (Dr.) Muhammad Babangida – Pro-Chancellor of El-Amin University, Minna, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), and Executive Chairman of the Profile Group of Companies.
5. Amb. Ahmed Umar (Rtd.), Jarman Kano – A retired Federal Permanent Secretary with extensive experience in public administration, public policy and traditional institutions.
6. Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN – President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), recognised for his work in law, professional ethics, institutional development and justice.
7. Dr. Rislan Abdulazeez Kanya – CEO of the Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CCSA) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Cosmopolitan University, with expertise in digital transformation, information systems, innovation and technology for development.

Together, the seven members bring a broad range of professional knowledge and leadership experience to the Chamber's work.

Strengthening Nigeria–Central Europe Relations

The NCECC Advisory Board is expected to provide strategic guidance as the Chamber expands its work in trade promotion, investment facilitation, educational cooperation and international partnerships.

Through these efforts, the Chamber aims to build stronger connections between Nigerian businesses and their counterparts in the Czech Republic and other Central European countries.

Such partnerships can encourage knowledge sharing, promote investment, support innovation and create new opportunities for businesses and institutions in both regions.

Dr. Kanya's participation brings valuable experience in digital development and higher education to these discussions, particularly in areas where technology, research and innovation can support economic growth.

CCSA Congratulates Its CEO

The Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture congratulates Dr. Rislan Abdulazeez Kanya on his appointment to the NCECC Advisory Board.

CCSA recognises this appointment as an opportunity to contribute to wider discussions on technology, innovation, sustainable development and international cooperation.

The Centre remains committed to working with relevant institutions, development partners and stakeholders to advance climate-smart agriculture, strengthen institutional collaboration and support sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.

Through leadership, research and strategic partnerships, CCSA continues to work towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Centre for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CCSA)
Cosmopolitan University, Abuja, Nigeria