About Us
Gilead Trust Economic Empowerment Project
Evidence-driven policy analysis for socially inclusive development in Africa.
Empowering Communities Through Evidence-Based Policy
GTEEP is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing socially inclusive development in Africa through evidence-driven policy research, strategic engagement, and community empowerment. Founded on the belief that data speaks more than rhetoric, we work to ensure that policy decisions are grounded in rigorous analysis and that the voices of ordinary citizens are heard in the policy process.
GTEEP
Gilead Trust Economic Empowerment Project
Our Philosophy
The core principles that guide our work and shape our approach to development in Africa.
Partnerships for African Development
We believe that meaningful development in Africa requires collaborative partnerships across governments, civil society, academia, and the private sector. No single actor can address the continent's complex challenges alone.
Evidence-driven Policy Analysis for Socially Inclusive Development
Our analysis is grounded in rigorous evidence, not ideology. We are committed to producing policy research that prioritizes social inclusion and ensures that development benefits reach the most vulnerable populations.
Data Speaks More Than Rhetoric
In an era of information overload, we let the data lead. Our "Data Speaks" approach ensures that policy recommendations are backed by solid evidence and that our advocacy is compelling because it is credible.
People-centered Development
Development must serve people, not just economic indicators. We center our research and advocacy on the lived experiences of ordinary Africans, ensuring that policy outcomes improve real lives and livelihoods.
Gender Equitable Economic Growth and Transformation
Economic growth that excludes women is neither sustainable nor just. We champion gender-equitable approaches to economic policy that recognize and address the structural barriers women face in accessing economic opportunities.
Our Leadership
Experienced leaders driving GTEEP's mission for evidence-based, inclusive policy across Africa.
Bola Akanji
Executive Director
Bola Akanji is a distinguished economist and policy researcher with over 25 years of experience in international trade policy, African economic integration, and development economics. As the founder and Executive Director of GTEEP, she leads the organization's mission to promote evidence-driven, socially inclusive policy across Africa. A PhD holder from the University of Ibadan, she has published extensively on the AfCFTA, ECOWAS trade protocols, and the gender dimensions of trade policy.
Tomi Adu
Director
Tomi Adu brings extensive experience in development finance and institutional management to GTEEP. With a background in banking and international development, she oversees strategic partnerships and organizational development, ensuring GTEEP's operations align with its mission of empowering African communities through evidence-based policy.
Michael Akanji
Director
Michael Akanji contributes expertise in project management and community development to GTEEP's board. His work focuses on translating research findings into practical interventions that benefit grassroots communities, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment and agricultural value chains.
Yemi Akanji
Director
Yemi Akanji brings a wealth of experience in organizational strategy and governance. With a keen interest in capacity building and institutional strengthening, Yemi supports GTEEP's efforts to build the next generation of African policy leaders and researchers.
Our Advisory Board
Distinguished experts who provide strategic guidance and direction to our work.
Olaide Adedokun
Advisory Board
Olaide Adedokun is a seasoned policy analyst and development practitioner who provides strategic guidance to GTEEP's research agenda. With expertise in public policy and governance reforms, Olaide helps ensure GTEEP's work remains relevant and impactful.
Funmi Soetan
Advisory Board
Funmi Soetan brings deep expertise in financial inclusion and economic empowerment to GTEEP's Advisory Board. Her work on expanding access to financial services for underserved populations informs GTEEP's approach to people-centered development.
Mike Faborode
Advisory Board
Mike Faborode is an accomplished academic and policy advisor who contributes strategic insight on education policy, human capital development, and institutional capacity building. His guidance strengthens GTEEP's youth mentoring and citizen enlightenment programs.
Joseph Oluponna
Advisory Board
Joseph Oluponna provides expert guidance on agricultural policy, rural development, and food security. His extensive field experience across West Africa enriches GTEEP's research on agricultural value chains and livelihood improvement strategies.
Funke Mojubaolu Okome
Advisory Board
Funke Mojubaolu Okome is a renowned scholar of African political economy and gender studies. Her expertise in gender analysis and women's economic empowerment provides critical direction to GTEEP's work on gender-equitable economic growth and transformation.
Board of Trustees
Providing governance oversight and strategic direction for GTEEP's mission.
Abayomi Akanji
Board of Trustees
Abayomi Akanji serves on the Board of Trustees, providing strategic oversight and governance guidance to GTEEP. With decades of experience in business and community leadership, he ensures the organization remains true to its founding mission and values.
Tomi Adu
Board of Trustees
In addition to her role as Director, Tomi Adu serves on the Board of Trustees, contributing her expertise in financial governance and institutional accountability to ensure GTEEP operates with the highest standards of transparency and impact.
Adenike Shoyinka
Board of Trustees
Adenike Shoyinka brings a distinguished background in education and social development to GTEEP's Board of Trustees. Her commitment to women's empowerment and community development aligns closely with GTEEP's mission of inclusive economic growth.
Get Involved with GTEEP
Whether you're a researcher, policymaker, or development practitioner, we'd love to hear from you.