ABOUT YOU AS A FUTURES THINKER / PRACTITIONER

You identify yourself as an African futures thinker or practitioner. How would you describe to the woman or man on the street what it is that you do in this regard?

To the woman or man on the African street, I would describe to them how I work with other youths in Africa and across the globe to create opportunity for youths and the pro-poor in the rural and semi-urban communities in Africa through agricultural related activities such as involvement in research, contribution and engagement in policy debates and forum discussions.

How many years have you worked as an African futures thinker / practitioner?

About 5 years since I have developed an interest in youth involvement in agricultural research for development in Nigeria and Africa at large.

In which countries or places have you had working experience as an African futures thinker / practitioner?

In Nigeria, through participation in the activities of organisations like Young Professionals Platform for Agricultural Research for Development (YPARD) as well as engagement in series of young scientists/researchers activities.

In what languages have you undertaken futures / foresight related work or research?

English

What is it that motivates you to work or participate in the foresight / future studies / related field

My motivation is drawn from the goal to become an excellent researcher/academic who will contribute to global food security and sustainable livelihoods among the young and the pro-poor people in the rural and semi-urban communities of Africa. I also want to see more young people take up agriculture as a career and business, more than a development activity.

What goal/s would you most like to reach with your work as an African futures thinker / practitioner?

I would like to set up a project that ensures continuous training, development and inflow of young people into agricultural research for development in Africa.

Who or what most influenced your thinking as a futures thinker / practitioner, and how?

My first ever research supervisor; he taught to think about the future rather than today. His life exemplifies what he taught me in that preparing for the future and thinking positively about, it is more important than the pleasures of today.

What is your main disciplinary background? (i.e. your primary training / qualification)

Animal Science and Technology

How do other people describe you and how do you describe yourself?

Others describe me as… optimistic

I describe myself as… focused

YOUR PERSPECTIVE

What is one of your favourite quotes about the future?

"Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

How would you describe the state of African futures thinking right now?

The state of African thinking is becoming relevant among the African people and there is an increasing level of awareness about what the future holds for Africa as a result of that.

What is, in your opinion, the main barrier to uptake of futures knowledge by African institutions and organisations?

When organisations are led by people who are closed-minded in their thinking and are not familiar with change.

If you were to give advice to someone who wants a career in African foresight / future studies, what would you say to him or her?

The future belongs to those who believe in it.

What are your recommended readings for every African futures thinker / practitioner?

The Spirit of Leadership by Myles Monrue

What are your recommendations for other favourite futures resources: websites, newsfeeds, mailing lists, associations, etc.?

• Institute for Future Research
• Future Challenges
• Ashoka Changemakers