BOARD MEMBERS
Rufina Nyelong
Executive Director
Rufina Nyelong is a seasoned advocate for women’s empowerment and development, with over two decades of experience driving transformative change across Nigeria. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from the University of Maiduguri and a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Rufina brings a unique blend of academic excellence and practical expertise to her work.
As the Executive Director of Evolve Africa Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing women’s rights, health, agriculture, and education, Rufina has established herself as a respected leader and voice for marginalized communities. With a proven track record of strategic leadership, program development, and community engagement, Rufina continues to inspire and empower individuals, organizations, and governments to work towards a more equitable, just, and progressive society.
Chairman, Board of Directors
Rev. (Dr.) Yunusa Sabo Nmadu Jnr. is a distinguished leader, scholar, and advocate with extensive experience in organizational leadership, conflict resolution, and religious freedom advocacy. He holds multiple academic and professional qualifications, including a Master’s in Conflict, Peace, and Strategic Studies from Kaduna State University and a Master’s in Administration from ECWA Theological Seminary, Jos.
With a career spanning over three decades, Rev. Nmadu Jnr. has been actively involved in social justice, interfaith dialogue, and governance. His work has earned him numerous awards, including the Mayor of Peace title from the United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Center.
As the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Evolve Africa, he brings a wealth of experience in leadership, advocacy, and community development. His passion for youth empowerment, good governance, and economic transformation aligns with Evolve Africa’s vision of fostering sustainable development across Nigeria
REV (DR) YUNUSA SABO NMADU
Project Development Director
Eneotse Isosie Unoogwu is a seasoned social entrepreneur and business leader with a proven track record of driving innovation and growth in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. As the CEO of FarmBizness Ltd, Alltimefresh LTD, and Farmtrade Enterprises, she has pioneered groundbreaking solutions, including an off-grid cold chain logistics model, to reduce postharvest losses and promote robust value chains.
With a degree in Business Administration and a Diploma in Innovation and Entrepreneurial Finance from Kaduna Business School, Nigeria, Eneotse brings a unique blend of business acumen, entrepreneurial spirit, and social impact expertise. Her skills and certifications span project management, social entrepreneurship, business planning, finance, and strategic management.
As Development Director at Evolve Africa Initiative, Eneotse leverages her expertise to drive strategic growth, foster partnerships, and mobilize resources to support the organization’s mission.
Eneotse Unoogwu
Training and Education Director
Aisha Adamu is a seasoned State Team Lead at Teaching at the Right Level Africa (TaRL Africa), where she drives the strategic implementation of an evidence-based education program aimed at improving learning outcomes for millions of African children.
She holds a Master of Education from the University of the People, USA, a Diploma in Education Administration and Management from the Asian College of Teachers, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Curriculum Studies at Nasarawa State University.
With over 20 years of experience spanning journalism, customer care, quality assurance, and social development, Aisha brings a diverse and dynamic skill set to her work. Her expertise includes curriculum design, program management, team coordination, technical report writing, qualitative research, and primary data analysis. She is passionate about education administration and empowering communities to drive sustainable change.
Aisha Adamu
Mohammed Aliko Mohammed
Finance Director
Mohammed Aliko Mohammed is a seasoned finance professional with expertise in financial management, capital markets, and business advisory. He holds a B.Sc. in Accounting from Bayero University, Kano, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Sciences from Kaduna Polytechnic. His career spans roles at ALMO Gases Limited and the Nigerian Stock Exchange (now NGX), where he served as Branch Manager for the Kaduna Branch, overseeing operations across North-Western states, and as Head of the Alternative Securities Market (Growth Segment). In 2018, Mohammed co-founded Intelaris Advisory Limited, a firm dedicated to supporting startups and SMEs with financial and strategic advisory services. He has attended executive training programs at institutions such as the Lagos Business School, New York Institute of Finance, UNITAR, and NIPSS, enhancing his expertise in corporate finance, investment strategies, and economic policy. He is a distinguished member (mni) of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies and serves on the Technical Committee of the National Council on Privatization. As Finance Director at Evolve Africa, Mohammed leverages his extensive experience to drive financial sustainability, investment planning, and corporate governance. His contribution plays a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission to foster economic empowerment, business growth, and sustainable development across communities. |
Legal Executive
Joseph Bata Danboyi is an accomplished legal practitioner with extensive experience in civil litigation, human rights advocacy, and corporate legal practice. As the Principal Partner at Shanding, Danboyi & Co., he has built a distinguished career in legal drafting, conveyancing, estate administration, and corporate governance.
A graduate of the University of Maiduguri with an LL. B (Hons), Joseph was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989 and is currently pursuing an LL.M at the University of Jos. Barrister Joseph serves in multiple leadership capacities, including as the Head of the Directorate of Human Rights and Religious Freedom at the Christian Lawyers Fellowship of Nigeria (CLASFON) and the Chairman of the Human Rights Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, Jos Branch.
Driven by a passion for justice, religious freedom, and social equity, Joseph Bata Danboyi continues to be a pillar in the legal community, providing dedicated advocacy and legal support to individuals and institutions alike.
Barr. Joseph Danboyi
Dr. Kehinde James Ogunmola
Project Coordinator
Dr. Kehinde James Ogunmola is a seasoned geophysicist, exploration geologist, and development strategist with over two decades of experience in geosciences, research, and project management. He holds a Ph.D. in Geophysics from the University of Lagos, an M.Sc. in Exploration Geophysics from the University of Leeds, UK, an M.Sc. in Mineral Exploration from the University of Jos, and a B.Tech (Hons) in Applied Geology from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi.
Dr. Ogunmola has worked extensively in academia, research institutions, and international development projects. Throughout his career, he has held key positions, including Assistant Director at the National Space Research and Development Agency, Senior Lecturer at the University of Jos, and Geospatial Expert Advisor for the World Bank-assisted ACReSAL project. He has also contributed to high-impact research and consultancy projects, specializing in geospatial analysis, remote sensing, and mineral exploration.
At Evolve Africa, Dr. Ogunmola leads projects focused on youth empowerment, agricultural value-chain development, and sustainable mining practices. His expertise is instrumental in driving Evolve Africa’s mission to create economic opportunities for marginalized communities through innovative solutions in agriculture, mining, and entrepreneurship. A recipient of multiple international grants and a widely published researcher, he is committed to leveraging his expertise to foster socio-economic development in Africa.
TEAM MEMBERS
Consultant
Esther Hadiza Ijeaku is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with over 20 years of experience in Nigeria’s development sector. She has held key roles in both local and international non-profit organizations, leading projects in human rights, health (HIV, MNCH), human trafficking, democracy, and governance. Esther has managed and provided oversight for donor-funded projects supported by UNICEF, UN, DFID, USAID, WHO, and the EU. She served as Senior Projects Manager at BBC Media Action Nigeria, where she led a team of eleven, managed media partnerships with over 300 radio and TV stations, and contributed to strategic planning as a member of the Senior Management Team. Esther holds a bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master’s in Business and Management from Aston University, Birmingham, UK. As a founding member of Gender Awareness Trust (GAT), Esther has been deeply involved in gender and peacebuilding initiatives in Northern Nigeria. Passionate about disability inclusion and safeguarding, she integrates these themes into her work while creating engaging team-building retreats and leadership programs. She brings a unique perspective to her work in social impact and development.
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Esther Hadiza Ijeaku
Jessica Niri Daniel
Programme Manager
Jessica Niri Daniel is a passionate human development advocate with a strong focus on youth empowerment, addiction recovery, and social impact programs. With extensive experience in community mobilization, project planning, and advocacy, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals struggling with substance abuse, child exploitation, and social reintegration. Jessica has worked as a Field Officer at Jungle Ministry and a Counselor at Hope and Freedom Centre, where she provided rehabilitation support, mentorship, and training for young people battling addiction and prostitution.
She has contributed to adult education through her work with LEAH Foundation, where she served as a counselor and literacy instructor. Her expertise in stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, and program monitoring has made her a key player in implementing impactful community interventions.
Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Television Journalism at NTA College, Jos, Jessica combines her media knowledge with advocacy to raise awareness on critical social issues. Fluent in English, Hausa, and Berom, she is an adept communicator and strategic project manager committed to creating meaningful change. As Program Manager at Evolve Africa, Jessica leads initiatives that foster youth development, addiction recovery, and community transformation, ensuring sustainable impact across diverse communities.
Anthony Offor
Data Analyst/Administrative Manager
Anthony Offor is a results-driven data analyst and research specialist with extensive experience in data management, business intelligence, and project monitoring. With a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Statistics from Kaduna Polytechnic, he possesses strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of statistical methodologies, data visualization, and predictive analytics.
He has worked across various sectors, including public health, supply chain management, business development, and humanitarian initiatives. His expertise in data collection, monitoring & evaluation (M&E), and business intelligence tools has enabled him to drive data-driven decision-making in critical projects.
Passionate about leveraging technology for impactful solutions, Anthony has successfully led research projects, community engagement initiatives, and logistics operations to improve efficiency in healthcare, finance, and development programs.
Abu Babandako Samuel
Financial Manager
Abu Babandako Samuel is a dedicated accounting and finance professional with a robust background in financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic business consultancy. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance from the University of Abuja and has further enhanced his skill set with a Diploma in Digital Marketing, enabling him to integrate financial expertise with modern business strategies.
With extensive experience in financial management roles across diverse sectors. His analytical acumen and proficiency in financial reporting have consistently driven operational efficiency and profitability.
Abu’s blend of financial expertise, leadership skills, and strategic insight makes him a valuable asset to the team in Evolve Africa Initiative, where precision and integrity are paramount.
Noel Nyelong
Field Coordinator
Noel Louis Nyelong is a dedicated professional with a solid background in health and social services management, local government administration, and public administration. He holds an Advanced Diploma in Health and Social Services Management from the University of Jos, Department of Sociology, a Diploma in Local Government Administration from the University of Jos, Department of Political Science, and a Certificate in Public Administration from Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi. His educational background has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage social programs and engage with communities at various levels.
He has gained significant work experience in management and field operations, serving as Operations Manager at Rholoius Nigeria Enterprise before taking on the role of Outside Sales Manager at Oasis Distributions Ltd. His experience in coordinating teams, managing logistics, and driving outreach initiatives makes him well-suited for the Field Coordinator role at Evolve Africa. Additionally, he has attended various professional trainings, including a Youth Training on Land Preparation Best Practices for Effective Farming organized by the Federal College of Land Resource Technology, Kuru, in collaboration with Favour Graceland Co. Ltd. He also participated in the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) Youth Wing 2nd National Youth Summit and is a Certified Trauma Healing Facilitator.
Beyond his professional roles, Noel is actively involved in community development and youth empowerment. He was nominated to serve as a member of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) Plateau State Youth Committee, where he holds the position of Youth State Organizing Secretary. His dedication to grassroots engagement and capacity-building aligns with Evolve Africa’s mission to empower communities through impactful programs and initiatives.