Following the successful completion and graduation of our pioneer fellows of the FATE Institute Fellowship Program, we are thrilled to announce our esteemed Cohort II fellows!
For the 2nd cohort of the FATE Institute Fellowship program, we received a total of 165 applications from Nigerians all over the world. This time, we introduced a dual stream of Fellows; Senior Research Fellows and Research Fellows which allows us to contribute to building the next generation of policy shapers and influencers. Our Senior Research Fellows come with a wealth of experience of at least 10 years and have a PhD degree or are currently running a PhD program. Our Research Fellows are of a younger demographic, have at least 5 years of experience and possess a master’s degree or currently running a master’s program. Their two-year fellowship journey has commenced and will run until 2026.
Oluyemi Adeosun
Senior Research Fellow
Oluyemi Adeosun has dedicated his career to addressing the systemic challenges that hinder the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. His journey into this field was sparked by his firsthand experience working with struggling MSMEs and witnessing their immense talent and potential being stifled by barriers such as limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of essential business skills. This frustration fuelled his passion for crafting policy solutions that would create a more supportive environment for these critical drivers of economic development.
Empowering Nigerian MSMEs: Oluyemi Adeosun’s Vision for Inclusive Growth.
Oluyemi Adeosun has dedicated his career to addressing the systemic challenges that hinder the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. His journey into this field was sparked by his firsthand experience working with struggling MSMEs and witnessing their immense talent and potential being stifled by barriers such as limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of essential business skills. This frustration fuelled his passion for crafting policy solutions that would create a more supportive environment for these critical drivers of economic development.
Oluyemi’s research has been centred on identifying and addressing the key bottlenecks faced by MSMEs in Nigeria. Recognizing the need for data-driven advocacy, he conducted comprehensive surveys and analysed existing data to build a compelling case for policy reforms. His efforts were bolstered by partnerships with industry associations, through which he advocated for changes in areas such as access to credit, simplified business registration processes, and tax incentives tailored to the needs of MSMEs.
Beyond policy advocacy, Oluyemi took proactive steps to empower MSMEs through capacity-building programs. He developed and delivered training initiatives designed to equip entrepreneurs with essential skills in marketing, financial management, and digital literacy. Collaborating with universities and business development service providers, he ensured that these programs reached a broad audience, helping to bridge the knowledge gap that often hampers MSME growth.
Understanding the importance of mentorship and networking, Oluyemi established a robust network of experienced entrepreneurs and business professionals. This network has provided invaluable guidance to both aspiring and existing MSME owners, fostering a more supportive and collaborative business environment. Through these efforts, Oluyemi has played a key role in highlighting the plight of MSMEs in Nigeria, joining forces with other stakeholders to advocate for meaningful change.
His work has had a tangible impact. The training programs he facilitated have equipped numerous female and youth entrepreneurs with critical skills, leading to a notable increase in their online sales within just six months. His mentorship initiatives have also resulted in successful partnerships between established and aspiring MSMEs, leading to joint ventures and significant knowledge transfers that have further bolstered the MSME sector.
Oluyemi sees the Fellowship program as an exceptional platform to amplify his research findings and policy advocacy efforts. At the FATE Institute, Oluyemi aims to collaborate on research projects that advocate for evidence-based policies tailored to the needs of MSMEs, creating a more dynamic and inclusive business environment in Nigeria. He also plans to leverage the institute’s extensive network to disseminate best practices and success stories, inspiring and empowering the next generation of MSME leaders.
Oluyemi envisions a future where Nigeria’s economy is driven by a vibrant network of empowered MSMEs, fuelling job creation, economic diversification, and inclusive growth. He believes that through impactful policies and a supportive ecosystem, the immense potential of Nigerian entrepreneurship can be unlocked, paving the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for all.
Kolawole Osinowo
Senior Research Fellow
In the heart of Lagos, where the vibrant energy of the city meets the stark realities of inequality, Kolawole Osinowo’s journey into the world of policy began. The bustling streets, filled with ambition and promise, also revealed a deep divide—a digital chasm that separated those with access to technology and information from those left in the dark. This divide was not merely about convenience; it was a barrier to education, entrepreneurship, and a better quality of life for millions.
Bridging the Digital Divide: Kolawole Osinowo’s Journey to Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development
In the heart of Lagos, where the vibrant energy of the city meets the stark realities of inequality, Kolawole Osinowo’s journey into the world of policy began. The bustling streets, filled with ambition and promise, also revealed a deep divide—a digital chasm that separated those with access to technology and information from those left in the dark. This divide was not merely about convenience; it was a barrier to education, entrepreneurship, and a better quality of life for millions.
Kolawole’s passion for bridging this gap was ignited early in his career through his involvement in various ICT initiatives. One of his significant contributions was captured in the book Global Process, Local Reality: Nigerian Youth Lead Action in the Information Society. This work highlighted the urgency of addressing digital disparities and inspired Kolawole to focus on creating comprehensive, sustainable solutions through policy advocacy and community engagement.
Kolawole’s approach was multifaceted. At the grassroots level, he led campaigns to extend the benefits of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to underserved rural communities. These initiatives were more than just technical interventions; they were empowerment tools that equipped young people with the skills and resources needed to harness ICT for development. Through training and resource provision, Kolawole and his team helped to unlock the potential of these communities, driving economic growth and fostering innovation.
Beyond grassroots efforts, Kolawole’s influence extended to national and international policy development. His contributions to the Global Process, Local Reality Policy book project and the Policy Recommendations Book of Young Leaders of the French Africa Foundation marked him as a thought leader in the field. In these works, Kolawole collaborated with other visionary leaders to formulate actionable strategies for sustainable development policies. His specific focus on access to finance for SMEs in the renewable energy sector underscored the importance of innovative financial models that could drive economic growth and sustainability.
Kolawole’s commitment to policy advocacy also led him to play a pivotal role in the youth consultations for the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). Here, he gathered insights from young Nigerians, which became instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s position on ICT policies. His recommendations—promoting digital literacy, expanding ICT infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to technology—were designed to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth across the country.
One of Kolawole’s most impactful achievements was the successful implementation of the PAYGO (Pay-As-You-Go) system at Baobab+ Nigeria. This innovative sustainable financing model allowed underserved communities to access renewable energy solutions by paying in manageable instalments. The PAYGO system not only made energy more affordable but also catalyzed economic activities in these communities. By providing access to credit and helping the unbanked build credit histories, Kolawole’s work at Baobab+ Nigeria significantly improved living standards and opened new opportunities for financial inclusion.
For Kolawole, the FATE Institute Fellowship Program represents a natural extension of his policy journey. The fellowship aligns perfectly with his commitment to fostering inclusive finance and digital empowerment. It offers a unique platform to contribute to policy development, gain insights from leading development experts, and leverage a robust network to amplify his impact. Through this program, Kolawole aims to enhance his leadership skills, deepen his understanding of policy frameworks, and innovate scalable solutions that can transform lives across Nigeria and beyond.
Kolawole envisions a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of socio-economic status, has access to reliable and sustainable energy, digital tools, and financial services. This transformation would catalyze improvements in health, education, and economic productivity, driving the nation towards a future of inclusive growth and sustainable development. With the support of initiatives like the FATE Institute Fellowship Program, Kolawole is poised to make this vision a reality—one policy at a time.
Ejide Akinbiyi
Senior Research Fellow
Ejide Akinbiyi, a seasoned researcher and entrepreneur with over 14 years of experience, has spent her career delving into the intricacies of small and mid-sized businesses. As the co-founder and CEO of MaterialsPro, an innovative B2B eCommerce platform for bulk building materials, Ejide’s work revolves around providing businesses with timely and affordable access to essential resources.
Her journey began with a keen observation of the varying growth trajectories within the same entrepreneurial ecosystem. While some businesses flourished, tapping into new markets and scaling rapidly, others stagnated or folded despite having similar opportunities. This disparity sparked her curiosity and led her on a mission to understand the underlying factors that contribute to business growth. Her interactions with business owners, through informal interviews, highlighted access to markets and information as key drivers of success.
Promoting the Growth of Small and Mid-Sized Businesses
Ejide Akinbiyi, a seasoned researcher and entrepreneur with over 14 years of experience, has spent her career delving into the intricacies of small and mid-sized businesses. As the co-founder and CEO of MaterialsPro, an innovative B2B eCommerce platform for bulk building materials, Ejide’s work revolves around providing businesses with timely and affordable access to essential resources.
Her journey began with a keen observation of the varying growth trajectories within the same entrepreneurial ecosystem. While some businesses flourished, tapping into new markets and scaling rapidly, others stagnated or folded despite having similar opportunities. This disparity sparked her curiosity and led her on a mission to understand the underlying factors that contribute to business growth. Her interactions with business owners, through informal interviews, highlighted access to markets and information as key drivers of success.
This realization propelled Ejide to explore these dynamics further, culminating in her PhD thesis which examined the role of the online market space as a powerful enabler for business expansion. Armed with these insights, she turned to advocacy, writing, and disseminating content aimed at educating entrepreneurs on how to leverage these opportunities to maximize their potential.
Through her work, Ejide has witnessed the transformative impact that the right platforms can have on businesses. She is passionate about democratizing these opportunities, ensuring that more businesses can access the tools and resources necessary for success. Her advocacy extends to pushing for a more inclusive and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem where stakeholders not only do the right things but also do them right.
Ejide sees her participation in the FATE Institute Fellowship Program as a platform to further her mission. Through this fellowship, she is deepening her understanding of the core challenges faced by Nigerian entrepreneurs and working to develop policy guides that address these issues. Her vision is a future where entrepreneurship in Nigeria is not only feasible but also highly rewarding, driven by the ability to solve real problems, meet genuine needs, and earn well-deserved returns.
Chiamaka Enendu
Research Fellow
In the bustling world of Nigerian business, where economic trends and government policies can often feel overwhelming, one voice stands out for its clarity and dedication to making a difference—Chiamaka Enendu. A FATE Institute research fellow, a business journalist, and a master’s degree holder from the University of Abuja, Chiamaka has made it her mission to bridge the gap between complex economic policies and the everyday business owner.
Chiamaka’s journey is deeply rooted in a passion for empowering Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (NMSMEs) in Nigeria. Witnessing firsthand the struggles these businesses face—stifled by unfavorable policies and a lack of accessible information—she was inspired to carve out a unique path. This path led her to become the producer and anchor of Trust Television’s flagship business program, Business Daily, where she demystifies economic trends and government policies, making them accessible and actionable for her viewers, particularly NMSME owners.
Championing Sustainable Growth and Empowering NMSMEs
In the bustling world of Nigerian business, where economic trends and government policies can often feel overwhelming, one voice stands out for its clarity and dedication to making a difference—Chiamaka Enendu. A FATE Institute research fellow, a business journalist, and a master’s degree holder from the University of Abuja, Chiamaka has made it her mission to bridge the gap between complex economic policies and the everyday business owner.
Chiamaka’s journey is deeply rooted in a passion for empowering Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (NMSMEs) in Nigeria. Witnessing firsthand the struggles these businesses face—stifled by unfavorable policies and a lack of accessible information—she was inspired to carve out a unique path. This path led her to become the producer and anchor of Trust Television’s flagship business program, Business Daily, where she demystifies economic trends and government policies, making them accessible and actionable for her viewers, particularly NMSME owners.
But Chiamaka’s influence doesn’t stop there. Recognizing the need for a platform dedicated to promoting sustainable business practices, she founded Luminescence, a network that delivers well-informed, researched content on sustainability. This dual approach—through Business Daily and Luminescence—ensures that Chiamaka addresses both the immediate and long-term needs of Nigeria’s business community.
Through Business Daily, Chiamaka has pioneered a format that not only informs but engages. The show’s segments break down complex policies into simple, relatable terms, encouraging real-time interaction with viewers. Interviews with policymakers, economists, and business leaders offer diverse perspectives, helping NMSMEs navigate the challenges of the business landscape.
By conducting extensive research and collaborating with experts, Chiamaka has created content that not only informs but inspires. The success of Luminescence is evident in the positive shift in how businesses approach sustainability, with many now integrating these practices into their operations. The network’s content has even been referenced by other media outlets, amplifying its reach and influence.
Chiamaka’s work has garnered widespread acclaim, with Business Daily becoming a trusted source of information for countless NMSMEs. The impact of Luminescence has also been significant, with successful campaigns promoting sustainable practices across the country.
Joining the FATE Institute Fellowship Program is a natural progression for Chiamaka, aligning perfectly with her mission to foster entrepreneurial growth and policy innovation. Through the fellowship, she seeks to deepen her understanding of policymaking processes and enhance her ability to influence positive change. She envisions collaborating with fellow policymakers and industry experts to develop comprehensive strategies that address the challenges faced by businesses in Nigeria.
Chiamaka is also passionate about mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of the business world. She envisions a Nigeria where businesses of all sizes have access to the resources and information they need to thrive. A country where sustainable practices are not just encouraged but are integral to business operations. Through her work and the opportunities provided by the FATE Institute Fellowship Program, Chiamaka aims to contribute to a more informed, resilient, and sustainable business environment—one that leads to economic growth, job creation, and an improved quality of life for all Nigerians.
Charles Asiegbu
Research Fellow
Charles Asiegbu’s journey into the realm of policy and development was sparked by a childhood immersed in the political discourse of Nigeria. From a young age, he was exposed to the complexities of the nation’s leadership through the pages of his father’s newspapers. This early introduction to the chaotic yet fascinating world of Nigerian politics laid a solid foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment to policy advocacy and development work.
As an undergraduate at the University of Abuja, Charles found a natural fit in the UNESCO club, the largest development-focused organization on campus. His dedication and leadership skills quickly became evident, leading to his election as the club’s president. This role was more than just a title; it was an opportunity for Charles to delve deep into the intricacies of policymaking and leadership. Here, he began to grasp the interconnectedness of these two vital elements—realizing that effective leadership is not just about direction, but about crafting and implementing sound policies that can drive meaningful change.
Championing Policy Reforms for Nigeria’s Entrepreneurial Future
Charles Asiegbu’s journey into the realm of policy and development was sparked by a childhood immersed in the political discourse of Nigeria. From a young age, he was exposed to the complexities of the nation’s leadership through the pages of his father’s newspapers. This early introduction to the chaotic yet fascinating world of Nigerian politics laid a solid foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment to policy advocacy and development work.
As an undergraduate at the University of Abuja, Charles found a natural fit in the UNESCO club, the largest development-focused organization on campus. His dedication and leadership skills quickly became evident, leading to his election as the club’s president. This role was more than just a title; it was an opportunity for Charles to delve deep into the intricacies of policymaking and leadership. Here, he began to grasp the interconnectedness of these two vital elements—realizing that effective leadership is not just about direction, but about crafting and implementing sound policies that can drive meaningful change.
Charles’s commitment to policy work took a significant leap forward when he was selected as a fellow of the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Foundation’s Open Minds, Young Voices program. This fellowship was a pivotal moment in his career, exposing him to critical themes such as policy advocacy, social justice, and sustainable development. These experiences not only honed his skills but also ignited a passion for creating policies that address the root causes of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
In his professional journey, Charles recognized a glaring issue in Nigeria’s policy landscape—the scarcity of relevant data to support effective programmatic interventions. This realization became a driving force behind his work, especially as he took on the role of managing the Nextier Nigeria Violent Conflict Database. Under his stewardship, this database grew into the most comprehensive resource of its kind in the country, becoming an essential tool for development partners, embassies, and stakeholders to understand and respond to the violent conflict trends across Nigeria.
Through his work with the database, Charles observed the devastating impact of violent conflicts on Nigeria’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These enterprises, often the backbone of local economies, were disproportionately affected, with the resultant economic strain further escalating violence in certain regions. This insight fuelled Charles’s belief in the critical role of a strong entrepreneurship environment in Nigeria’s long-term development, especially in addressing the country’s massive unemployment crisis.
As a Research Fellow at the FATE Institute, Charles is now focused on leveraging his expertise to enhance Nigeria’s entrepreneurship policies. His vision is clear: to help build a Nigeria where imaginative young people can thrive, supported by robust MSMEs that drive economic growth and stability. Through his research and advocacy, Charles aims to see Nigeria fully realize its entrepreneurial potential, addressing fundamental challenges such as infrastructure deficits, regulatory hurdles, and unequal access to skilled labour and financial resources.
In his work at the FATE Institute, Charles Asiegbu is not just envisioning a better future for Nigeria—he is actively contributing to the policies that will help shape it.
