Advisory Board
The Advisory Board of Lift Africa Foundation serves as the intellectual and strategic compass of the organization. Their collective expertise and leadership guide the Foundation’s mission to strengthen justice systems, expand civic participation, and promote inclusive social development across Africa. Through their wisdom, mentorship, and global experience, they ensure that Lift Africa Foundation remains grounded in purpose and driven by excellence.
Prof. Usman Muhammad Shu’aib Zunnurain
Prof. Usman Zunnurain (Jakadan Funtua) is a distinguished Nigerian legal scholar and humanitarian with deep expertise in Islamic Jurisprudence, Humanitarian Law, and legal education. With more than two decades in academia, he has shaped policy debates and mentored generations of legal practitioners across Northern Nigeria.Â
Background & Education
He holds advanced degrees including an LL.M in International Human Rights & Humanitarian Law (University of Essex) and a Ph.D in Law (Ahmadu Bello University).
Professional Career
He previously served as Dean, Faculty of Law, Bayero University Kano, where he led one of the most successful NALT Conferences in the association’s history. He is currently Director, International Institute of Islamic Banking and Finance (BUK).
Leadership & Recognition
Prof. Zunnurain is a Ford Foundation Fellow, an IVLP alumnus, and Co-Founder of the Funtua Community Foundation for Health Education. He remains a powerful voice for justice, education, and community development.Â
Dr. Christopher Fomunyoh
Dr. Christopher Fomunyoh is an African democracy leader, international development expert, and senior political advisor with over 25 years of experience strengthening governance, peace building, and democratic institutions across Africa.
Background & Education
He holds advanced degrees from Harvard University, Boston University, and The Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy.
Professional Career
He serves as Senior Associate for Africa at the National Democratic Institute (NDI), where he advises heads of state, parliaments, political actors, and civil society organizations across the continent.Â
Dr. Fomunyoh has led or observed elections in over 25 African countries and regularly provides expert commentary on CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera.
Leadership & RecognitionÂ
He is the Founder of The Fomunyoh Foundation, promoting peace, democracy, and civic empowerment. His leadership strengthens Lift Africa’s governance and democracy agenda.
Olalekan Oshunkoya
Olalekan Oshunkoya is a Nigerian social entrepreneur, youth development strategist, and international development professional dedicated to civic innovation and youth empowerment.
Background & Education
He is currently completing a Doctor of Public Administration in Global Affairs & Human Security at the University of Baltimore.
Professional Career
He is the Founder & CEO of Impact Hub Abuja, integrating Nigerian change makers into the global Impact Hub network. He also leads Citizen Commons International, promoting governance participation and digital civic engagement.
Leadership & RecognitionÂ
Olalekan has extensive leadership experience, including serving as Co-President of the Coventry University Students’ Union and Interim Chairman of the Commonwealth Alliance of Young Entrepreneurs.Â
His expertise strengthens Lift Africa’s work in youth leadership, civic innovation, and social impact design.