Candidate info
Particular qualifications:
I bring huge experience in biodiversity conservation, stakeholder engagement, and policy advocacy, positioning me well for the role of IUCN Regional Councillor. As Director General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), the leading IUCN member in Nigeria, I have led conservation initiatives, including the IUCN Niger Delta Biodiversity Action Group (ND-BTAG) project on oil spill remediation. My leadership in this project demonstrates my ability to drive collaborative environmental solutions at the regional level. I have played a pivotal role in Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA) work as the Assistant Regional Focal Point for West Africa, training CSOs to establish KBA NCGs and strengthen conservation governance. Additionally, I am at the final stage of becoming an IUCN Certified Red List Assessor, equipping me with expertise in species conservation assessment and evidence-based decision-making. As NCF is a BirdLife International partner in Nigeria, I will leverage this position to encourage more BirdLife partners to join IUCN, strengthening conservation network in the region. Furthermore, as a member of the National Council on Climate Change in Nigeria and other boards, I have the influence to advocate for the establishment of a National IUCN Committee in Nigeria and support efforts to renew Nigeria’s IUCN membership. With my experience in policy, conservation action, and regional collaboration, I am committed to advancing IUCN’s mission and strengthening its impact in PACO.
Experience in fields of concern to IUCN:
I have extensive experience in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, climate action, and environmental governance, which align with IUCN’s core priorities. Before I became the DG of NCF, I implemented projects on habitat restoration, species conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. Currently under my leadership, NCF has strengthened partnerships and implemented conservation initiatives that address biodiversity loss and environmental sustainability. I am a member of the IUCN World Commission on protected Areas and Species Survival Commission which the recently established Nigerian Species Specialist Group (NgSSG) falls under.