Devatop Centre for Africa Development Achieves Landmark with Inaugural Board of Trustees Meeting

Abuja, Nigeria – Devatop Centre for Africa Development reached a historic milestone as it hosted orientation, induction and meeting for its newly appointed Board of Trustees on February 2nd and 3rd, 2024. The event, held at the Catholic Secretariat Abuja and the DEVATOP office in Abuja, marks a crucial juncture in the organization’s quest for elevated governance, strategic planning, and resource mobilization.

In his opening remarks, the Founder & Executive Director of Devatop Centre for Africa Development, Mr. Joseph Osuigwe expressed deep appreciation to the newly appointed Board of Trustees for joining the journey of DEVATOP. Mr Osuigwe shared the organization’s origin story, tracing back to 2013 when it began as an anti-trafficking community project during his National Youth Service as a corps member in Abuja. His engagement with vulnerable women and girls compelled him to initiate a Community Project, conducting sensitization workshops on eradicating human trafficking for over 2000 students and teachers across five schools in five communities. By 2016, DEVATOP fully registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

Dr. ThankGod Okosun, the newly appointed Board Chairman of DEVATOP, skillfully facilitated the board orientation. The current Board of Trustees includes distinguished individuals with diverse expertise:

Dr. ThankGod Okosun – Chairman: With over 25 years of experience in strategic planning, development, project design, and management, Dr. ThankGod brings extensive leadership and strategic vision to the role of Chairperson. Recognized for consecutive Palladium Awards of Excellence, Dr. ThankGod holds a Ph.D. in Peace and Conflict Studies.

Ms. Cynthia Ene Ogbe – Secretary: Renowned for her expertise in serial entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment advocacy, Ms. Cynthia Ene holds a degree in Mass Communication and a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy.

Dr. Benson Olugbuo – Member: A seasoned professional in Programme Management, Teaching, & Research, Dr. Benson Olugbuo’s illustrious career includes key positions at the Centre for Law Enforcement Education in Nigeria (CLEEN Foundation) and the Coalition for the International Criminal Court (CICC).

Ms. Ruth Gyet – Member: A professional Chartered Accountant with a decade of experience across various sectors, Ms. Ruth Gyet holds an MBA and a B.Sc. in Accounting.

Dr. Nwachukwu Chibuike – Member: An accomplished lecturer and dedicated researcher, Dr. Nwachukwu Chibuike’s academic and community development contributions have earned him several distinctions and awards.

Joseph Osuigwe, while presenting the board’s profile before the senior management team, expressed deep gratitude for the outstanding individuals serving on the board. Dr. ThankGod Okosun, the Board Chairman, lauded the passion and dedication of board members and thanked the DEVATOP management team for wholeheartedly supporting the organization’s vision.

In further extending appreciation to the DEVATOP team, the Board Members emphasized the importance of proactive leadership in identifying potential challenges within the team. They highlighted the significance of routine performance evaluations to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

A special highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates of board membership and letters of appointment to the Board of Trustees. This inaugural meeting sets the stage for Devatop Centre for Africa Development to continue working with local, national, and global partners to uphold human rights and social justice in Africa.