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Our Corporate Governance Structure

Nigerian Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship is governed by a Governing Council headed by the President/Chairman of the Council. The President is supported by the Vice-President (Entrepreneurship), the Vice-President (Innovation), and the Registrar/CEO, who also serves as the Secretary to the Council.

Alh. Lawal Kankia Ibrahim (Wazirin Kankiya), FNIM, FNIIE, F.IoD

Chairman Governing Council

With a remarkable career in Development Finance Institutions and Deposit Money Banks, Malam Lawal Kankia Ibrahim (FNIM, FNIIE, F.IoD) began his career as a Trainee, and rose to the position of Senior Manager at the Nigeria Bank for Commerce and Industry before ascending to the position of Executive Director at New Nigeria Development Company Ltd (NNDC) in Kaduna. Malam Ibrahim's contributions to the financial sector include the establishment of Jigawa Investment Company Ltd, where he served as its pioneering Managing Director. He also served as a Board Member and later as Managing Director of Katsina State Investment and Property Development Company Ltd.

Additionally, he held positions on the boards of Peugeot Automobile of Nigeria and also served as a Non-Executive Director at First Bank Nigeria, and many others cutting across all sectors of the Nigerian economy. His philanthropic activities include setting up "Succor for Almajiri Initiative”. He also holds the esteemed title of Wazirin Kankiya while he has also received several awards in recognition of his services to humanity. Lawal Kankia Ibrahim is a graduate of Business Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and an alumnus of Harvard Business School US,EISE of University of Navarada etc.

He also holds a Certificate in Investment Banking from the African Development Bank. His expertise is well-documented through numerous articles on Entrepreneurship, Investment, and Portfolio Management. He is the author of the book," Investment Decision," a pioneering book on Investment in Nigeria. Our President is the first recipient of Fellowship of Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NIIE). Likewise, he is a fellow of Institute of Directors, Nigerian Institute of Management(Chartered), Institute of Management Consultants and other Professional Organizations.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines:

Dr. Abdullahi Nasiru, Ph.D, MTAM ,FNIIE, FCEnt

Vice-President (Entrepreneurship)

Assoc. Prof. Nasiru Abdullahi is a Malaysian-trained, highly skilled Doctor of Entrepreneurship and Associate Prof. of Entrepreneurship at the Prestigious Ahmadu Bello University Zaria is known for his cerebral acumen and resourcefulness. Renowned as a natural-born entrepreneurship educator, consultant, and mentor, he has garnered international acclaim as an educational administrator and managerial luminary.

With a multifaceted expertise spanning management strategy, investment analysis, and risk management, Dr. Abdullahi has served as the former Head of Department at the Business Management Department of the Business School, and as the former Director of the International Centre of Excellence for Rural Finance and Entrepreneurship, both prestigious positions held at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.

His exceptional proficiency extends to the preparation of feasibility studies, crafting business plans, and orchestrating corporate reorganization efforts. Dr. Abdullahi's scholarly pursuits revolve around Entrepreneurship Development, Innovation, Business Growth, and Policy Development, among other areas of interest. He boasts numerous journal publications both domestically and internationally, and has delivered insightful papers at esteemed conferences worldwide.

As a consummate professional, Dr. Abdullahi has actively participated in consultancy research endeavors involving rigorous fieldwork, extensive data analysis, and comprehensive reporting. Notably, he spearheaded the "Mai Kosai Project" within the International Centre of Excellence for Rural Finance and Entrepreneurship. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide financial support and empowerment to rural women engaged in household consumption businesses.

Prof. Abdullahi is affiliated with esteemed organizations including The Academy of Management and holds fellowships with distinguished institutions such as the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NIIE) and the Institute of Classic Entrepreneurship, Nigeria. His contributions to academia, entrepreneurship, and rural development underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering economic empowerment on both local and global scales.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines are encouraged to join NIIE:

Lt. Col. Engr. Prof. Abubakar Surajo Imam, BEng, MSc, PhD, psc, FSS, MNSE, REng (COREN), MNIM, FNIIE

Vice-President (Innovation)

Born on June 22, 1976, in Kankia, Katsina State, is a distinguished figure in both military and academic circles. His journey began at Sultan Bello Primary School, Kaduna, and continued at Government College Katsina, where he laid the foundation for a future marked by excellence and innovation.

After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, in 2001, Lt. Col. Imam was commissioned into the Nigerian Army through the Short Service Combatant Course 32, later transitioning to a Regular Commission. His military career spans numerous strategic postings including 1 Base Workshop, Technical Group EME, HQ Nigerian Army Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (NAEME), DICON, and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, reflecting his dedication and expertise.

His academic achievements are equally remarkable. Lt. Col. Imam holds a Master's Degree in Mechatronics from Newcastle University, UK, and a PhD in Mechatronics and Robotics from the same institution. His passion for knowledge and innovation has led him to present papers at over 40 international workshops and seminars across the globe, including in the UK, Spain, Egypt, and the USA.

In his role at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Prof. Imam has made significant contributions that have positioned the institution as a leader in military innovation. He spearheaded the creation of the NDA’s Department of Mechatronics Engineering and the Centre for Innovation and Creativity (CINOCRE), which focuses on advancing Nigeria's Military-Industrial Complex (MIC). Under his leadership, the Centre has developed numerous groundbreaking military and civilian technologies, such as the automation of Nigerian Army Artillery guns, Combat Unmanned Ground Vehicles, and Smart Rockets and Missiles.

Prof. Imam’s work extends beyond the military. His innovations include solutions aimed at improving the lives of civilians, such as the School on Wheels initiative to reduce the number of Out-of-School Children (OOSC) in Nigeria, and the Mobile Field Bakery and Hybrid Electric-Petrol Five Wheeler Bike, which demonstrate his commitment to societal advancement.

In addition to his military and academic pursuits, Lt. Col. Engr. Prof. Abubakar Surajo Imam is a respected member of professional engineering bodies. He is a registered engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and a Member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (MNSE). These affiliations underscore his commitment to the highest standards of engineering practice and his dedication to advancing the engineering profession in Nigeria.

As the Vice President of Innovation at the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NIIE), Prof. Imam brings an unparalleled depth of experience and visionary leadership. His extensive background in both military and civilian technological solutions will be instrumental in driving the Institute’s mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurship across Nigeria. With his proven track record of translating complex research and development initiatives into practical, deployable solutions, he is poised to guide NIIE in pioneering innovative strategies that will significantly impact the nation’s entrepreneurial landscape.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Lt. Col. Engr. Prof. Abubakar Surajo Imam, FNIIE, was the second person to be awarded the prestigious Fellowship of the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NIIE), following only the President/Chairman of the Governing Council. His affiliations with prominent organizations such as the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB), further underscore his influence and leadership in the fields of innovation, military engineering, and entrepreneurship.

Lt. Col. Engr. Prof. Abubakar Surajo Imam’s legacy is one of relentless pursuit of excellence, a commitment to national development, and a visionary approach to the future of Nigeria's military and technological capabilities. His contributions continue to inspire and drive innovation in every sphere he touches, making him a vital asset to the NIIE and a leader who will shape the future of innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines are encouraged to join NIIE:

Prof. Kabiru Isah Dandago, Ph.D., FCA, FCTI, FNIM, FNAA, FFAR, FNIIE, MNES, AQIF

Member, Governing Council

Prof. Kabiru Isah Dandago is a distinguished Professor of Accounting at Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. Born on April 5th, 1963, in Dandago Quarters, Gwale Local Government Area, Kano State, his academic journey began at Malam Tsoho Qur’anic School in Makurdi, Benue State, and continued at Gwale Primary School and Government Arabic Teachers College, where he earned his First School Leaving Certificate and Grade Two Teachers’ Certificate between 1969 and 1984.

He furthered his education at Bayero University Kano (BUK) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG), obtaining a B.Sc., M.Sc. in Accounting, MBA, and a Ph.D. in Economics. Prof. Dandago is a proud alumnus of the University of Lagos, where he obtained his MSc in Accounting, and the Galilee International Management Institute (GIMI) in Nahalal, Israel, from where he earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Financial Management and Fundraising.

Prof. Dandago is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), the Nigerian Accounting Association (NAA), the Association of Forensic Accounting Researchers (FFAR) and Associate Member of Chartered Institute of Stock Brokers of Nigeria. He is also a Life Member of the Nigeria Economic Society (NES) and holds an Associate Qualification in Islamic Finance (AQIF) from IBFIM, Malaysia.

Prof. Dandago’s illustrious career began at Bayero University in 1990, where he rose to the rank of Professor of Accounting by 2007. He holds the prestigious FIRS-endowed Professorial Chair on Taxation at Kogi State University, Anyigba, and served as a Visiting Professor of Accounting and Finance at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) from 2012 to 2014.

A prolific scholar, Prof. Dandago has authored, co-authored, and edited 28 books and published 85 articles in national and international journals. He has supervised numerous theses, including 26 Ph.D. candidates. His academic influence extends to the accreditation of Nigerian universities and polytechnics and service as an external examiner for various institutions.

In addition to his academic contributions, Prof. Dandago has served on the Governing Councils of ICAN, CITN, and the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers of Nigeria (CISN). He has consulted for organizations like the British Council/World Bank, DFID, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, UNDP, and the European Union, and has participated in over 80 national and international conferences.

Prof. Dandago is currently a Federal Commissioner on the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) and continues to contribute to the advancement of accounting and finance education through his role at Bayero University and other prestigious institutions. He is married to Barr. Binta Kabir Isa and is blessed with children.

Prof. Dandago's extensive network and reputation are invaluable assets to the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NIIE). His credibility in accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship will attract professionals, academics, and industry leaders to the Institute, fostering a vibrant community eager to engage with NIIE. His connections will also help bring in distinguished members and organizations, expanding NIIE's influence.

Furthermore, his ability to connect Venture Capitalists with startups and members with innovative business ideas will enhance NIIE's membership appeal and create opportunities for collaboration and growth within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Prof. Dandago’s involvement will ensure NIIE remains at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting a diverse and talented membership committed to advancing the Institute's mission.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines are encouraged to join NIIE:

Dr. Uzombah Innocent Ndubueze, FCILRM, FNIIE

Member, Governing Council

Registrar General/CEO, Chartered Institute of Loan and Risk Management of Nigeria-Fellow and Council Member, Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NIIE).

Dr. Uzombah Innocent Ndubueze stands as a distinguished figure in the landscape of professional body governance and risk management in Nigeria. As the pioneering Registrar General and CEO of the Chartered Institute of Loan and Risk Management of Nigeria, Dr. Uzombah has not only shaped the institute’s direction but also set the standards for excellence in loan and risk management across the country. His deep-seated expertise and leadership have earned him the esteemed title of Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FNIIE), where he also serves as a key Council Member.

Dr. Uzombah's academic journey is marked by a solid foundation in business administration, with a Higher National Diploma and a Master's in Business Administration, specializing in Marketing Management. His quest for knowledge and professional development led him to become a Doctoral Fellow and an International Certified Risk Management Professional in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, he holds the position of African Regional Director for the same institute, underscoring his influence and commitment to elevating the standards of risk management across the continent.

His extensive career in professional body governance includes significant roles such as National Coordinator for the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), National Coordinator for the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants of Nigeria, Consultant for the Institute of Treasury and Financial Administration, and Executive Director of Membership Services for the Portfolio Management Institute. These roles have equipped him with unparalleled experience in membership development, strategic leadership, and organizational growth.

Dr. Uzombah’s involvement in international risk management conferences, such as those organized by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (USA), Institute of Risk Management (UK), and Risk Management Society (USA), has positioned him as a global thought leader in the field. His dedication to raising the standards of African risk management professional bodies is evident in his active participation and leadership in these global platforms.

As a Council Member of NIIE, Dr. Uzombah brings a wealth of experience in professional body governance, membership building, and risk management. His strategic insight and vast network will be instrumental in guiding NIIE's governance structure and enhancing its membership base. Dr. Uzombah’s background and commitment to professional excellence make him a vital asset to NIIE’s mission of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Happily married with children, Dr. Uzombah continues to inspire and lead with a vision of elevating professional standards and contributing to the economic development of Nigeria through innovation, entrepreneurship, and risk management.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines are encouraged to join NIIE:

Dr. Mohammed Gaddafi Ibrahim, CNA, FCCASA_USA, FAMSSRN, FISMN, MAGN, FNIIE

Member, Governing Council

Ag. Head, Department of Entrepreneurial Studies, Faculty of Management Sciences, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)- Member Governing Council of the Institute.

Dr. Mohammed Gaddafi Ibrahim is an accomplished academic and expert in Entrepreneurship and Management. Currently serving as the Acting Head of the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies within the Faculty of Management Sciences at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Dr. Ibrahim has demonstrated a strong commitment to both teaching and research. His leadership within the department reflects a dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among students and faculty alike.

Dr. Ibrahim's educational background is both diverse and extensive, encompassing studies across various prestigious institutions. His academic journey began with the attainment of a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (Entrepreneurship) from the University of Hertfordshire, UK, in 2010. Following this, he pursued a Master of Science in Management Information Systems at Coventry University, UK, which he completed in 2011. Driven by a passion for knowledge and academic excellence, Dr. Ibrahim furthered his studies by earning a PhD in Management (Entrepreneurship), solidifying his expertise in the field.

In recognition of his contributions to the field of entrepreneurship and management, Dr. Ibrahim has been awarded several prestigious designations, including CNA, FCCASA_USA, FAMSSRN, FISMN, and MAGN.

Dr. Ibrahim has recently been honored with a Fellowship of the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FNIIE) and has also been appointed as a Member of the Governing Council of the Institute. His extensive experience and academic credentials bring a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the NIIE, enhancing its capacity to drive innovation and entrepreneurship across Nigeria.

With his remarkable background, Dr. Ibrahim significantly adds to the image and membership drive of the NIIE. His standing as a respected academic and leader in the field of entrepreneurship serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals. His involvement with the Institute strengthens its commitment to fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurial ventures, and promoting economic growth through education and mentorship. Dr. Ibrahim’s affiliation with NIIE is expected to attract a diverse array of professionals and academics, thereby expanding the Institute’s influence and reach across various sectors.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines are encouraged to join NIIE:

Prof. Olalekan Busra Sakariyau, FNIIE

Member , Governing Council

Prof. Olalekan Busra Sakariyau (OBS) is a distinguished academic and entrepreneur with a passion for driving innovation and fostering entrepreneurship. A Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FNIIE) and Governing Council Member, Prof. Sakariyau has made significant contributions to the advancement of entrepreneurship, e-business, and business growth, both in Nigeria and internationally. His leadership, mentorship, and consultancy roles have empowered individuals, businesses, and organizations to achieve sustainable success.
A seasoned entrepreneur and Professor of Entrepreneurship, Prof. Sakariyau brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, where his research focused on entrepreneurial leadership and its impact on safety performance in SMEs. His professional qualifications span Business Administration, Management, and Entrepreneurship Development, having earned degrees from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, where he completed both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees.

Prof. Sakariyau's impact is not limited to academia. As a Senior Mentor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) LaunchX Program, he has mentored young innovators from across the globe, shaping the future of entrepreneurship education. He has also served as a Consultant for the Employment-Oriented Private Sector Development Programme (EoPSD) in collaboration with GTZ and the Federal Republic of Germany, providing valuable guidance in business development and public-private partnerships since 2009.
His work in Nigeria extends to the agricultural sector, where he has been a Consultant for the Professional Diploma in Agriculture Award at the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure since 2021. Prof. Sakariyau is also a key figure in education, offering his expertise as a Resource Person at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and as a Consultant for the Professional Diploma in Education (PDE) with the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) since 2019. His consultancy roles include contributions to the APPEALS World Bank Assisted Project, where he has played a critical role in empowering persons with disabilities and special needs.
An advocate for inclusive development, Prof. Sakariyau is actively involved in capacity-building initiatives, including training programs under the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and ICAN. His dedication to improving entrepreneurial education and occupational safety in Nigeria and beyond is evident in his diverse professional engagements.
Prof. Olalekan Busra Sakariyau’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and problem-solving continues to inspire many. His bold vision for the future of entrepreneurship positions him as a leader in transforming both business landscapes and educational frameworks. Through his work with the
Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, he remains a catalyst for positive change, helping to shape the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines are encouraged to join NIIE:

Dr. Daniel Okechukwu Ochi, , FNIIE

Member , Governing Council

Dr. Daniel Okechukwu Ochi, FNIIE, is a seasoned expert with over 20 years of progressive experience as an Enterprise and Business Development Specialist. With a passion for SME startup growth and innovative marketing strategies, Dr. Ochi brings a wealth of knowledge to the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NIIE) as a Governing Council Member.
He holds a PhD in Entrepreneurship/Enterprise Development from Atlantic International University, Hawaii, USA, and an MBA from the National Open University of Nigeria. Dr. Ochi has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including pioneering the Nsukka Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (NSCCIMA), which has since become a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) approved Entrepreneurship Development Institution (EDI). He also serves as Director of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub at Maduka University, Enugu State, and is the Director General of the Southeast Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture.

As a certified Business Development Service Provider (BDSP) and mentor, Dr. Ochi is accredited by the National Council on MSME and SMEDAN. He founded the African Institute for Wealth and Jobs Creation, which supports SME growth, and is also the CEO of Thought Pattern Consulting, an Abuja-based firm dedicated to SME and entrepreneurship development. His leadership extends to co-founding the Association of Business Development Professionals in Nigeria (ABDPIN), which collaborates with international bodies such as USAID, UNIDO, and Adam Smith International.
An ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System certified trainer, implementer, and lead auditor, Dr. Ochi has a robust background in quality assurance and environmental management. He has actively contributed to the success of over 400 SMEs through his involvement in the Transforming Nigeria Youth (TNY) program, a partnership between the Pan-African University’s Enterprise Development Centre and MasterCard International.
Dr. Ochi is also a prolific author, with titles including "How and Where to Source for Funds to Finance Your Business" (2023) and "Entrepreneurship Development Strategies in Nigeria" (2012).
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to entrepreneurship and enterprise development, Dr. Ochi is a Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FNIIE), further solidifying his status as a key thought leader in the field.

Who Should Join NIIE

Individuals from the following disciplines are encouraged to join NIIE: