The MADI People

 

Make A Difference team includes lawyers, journalists, advocates, and academics of diverse backgrounds and nationalities.

These experts conduct fact-finding missions and investigate human rights abuses, impartially reporting on the human rights conditions.

These facts are then used in our targeted advocacy to promote human rights and justice around the world.

Our work is guided by our senior management team, the board of directors, council leadership, and advisory committees.

If you are a member of the press and would like to speak with an expert, contact our communications department.

The MADI People

 

Make A Difference team includes lawyers, journalists, advocates, and academics of diverse backgrounds and nationalities.

These experts conduct fact-finding missions and investigate human rights abuses, impartially reporting on the human rights conditions.

These facts are then used in our targeted advocacy to promote human rights and justice around the world.

Our work is guided by our senior management team, the board of directors, council leadership, and advisory committees.

If you are a member of the press and would like to speak with an expert, contact our communications department.

Executive Team

Lemmy Ughegbe, Ph.D

Founder and Executive Director

 

Dr Lemmy Ughegbe, a celebrated Nigerian journalist, media critic, and development communication expert, stands as a beacon of advocacy and social reform. With nearly three decades of professional experience, Dr Ughegbe has dedicated his life to advancing child and gender rights, combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and fostering transparency, accountability, and good governance.

...more about Lemmy Ughegbe

Leadership in Advocacy

As the Executive Director of the Make A Difference Initiative and the Men Against Rape Foundation, Dr Ughegbe leads efforts to curtail human rights abuses and provide psychosocial and legal support to survivors of SGBV. His work underscores his deep commitment to behavioural change communication, public policy reform, and the creation of safe spaces for vulnerable populations.

A Champion for the Girl-Child and Women’s Rights

Dr Ughegbe’s advocacy journey includes founding Education For All Roundtable (EFAR) in 2003 to champion universal access to basic education. In 2005, he co-founded My Girl, My Heartbeat, an initiative focused on eliminating discriminatory practices against the girl-child. As the President-General of the Woman Wrapper Association of Nigeria, Dr Ughegbe boldly identifies as a feminist, tirelessly advocating for gender equity and the empowerment of women and girls.

Advocacy for Justice: Ochanya and Keren-Happuch Campaigns

Among his most notable campaigns is his leadership of the Coalition on Gender-Based Violence, which seeks justice for victims like Ochanya Elizabeth Ogbanje and Keren-Happuch Aondodoo Akphagher. These cases, marked by heinous acts of sexual violence, highlight systemic failings and the urgent need for reform. Through sustained advocacy, the Coalition has driven significant policy actions, including a resolution by Nigeria’s House of Representatives to investigate institutions implicated in these tragic cases.

Author of Tears from the Grave

Dr Ughegbe’s passion for storytelling and advocacy is reflected in his book, Tears from the Grave, which delves into the critical issue of sexual and gender-based violence. The book serves as a powerful call to action, raising awareness and demanding systemic change.

Media Influence and Public Engagement

Dr Ughegbe leverages his dual roles as Executive Director and prominent media personality to champion transparency and accountability in public and private institutions. He has constantly beamed his searchlight on the Nigerian judiciary, National Assembly, big private corporations, and other entities. Through his platforms, he passionately promotes the principles of good governance, equity, and social justice, ensuring that power is held accountable and the voices of the marginalised are amplified.

A sought-after voice in media, Dr Ughegbe is a regular resource person on African Independent Television’s “Kakaaki” and Arise News’ “Daybreak,” where he provides sharp, impactful analyses of societal issues. His ability to hold public officials accountable has cemented his reputation as a fearless advocate for justice and governance reform.

Academic and Professional Credentials

Dr Ughegbe’s academic achievements include a Master’s in Development Communication from Nasarawa State University and a Ph.D. in Strategic and Development Communication, with a focus on gender equity and empowerment. He is a certified Modern Applied Psychologist and Depression Counsellor, with training from institutions such as the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and the Academy of Modern Applied Psychology.

Global Recognition and Affiliations

His work has earned international acclaim, including participation in the Angela Merkel Fellowship in Berlin and the United Nations Conference on the Challenges of Global Ethnic Minorities in Geneva. Dr Ughegbe is affiliated with esteemed organisations such as the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and NAPTIP.

A Legacy of Advocacy and Education

Beyond his professional accolades, Dr Ughegbe is deeply committed to mentorship and education. He founded the Education For All Roundtable to promote universal education and continues to inspire change through his writings, public speaking, and grassroots activism.

Dr Lemmy Ughegbe’s relentless pursuit of justice, equity, and social transformation positions him as a global thought leader in advocacy and development communication. His unwavering dedication to uplifting the voiceless ensures his legacy as a catalyst for meaningful societal change. He is also the author of Tears from the Grave, further showcasing his dedication to advocacy and storytelling.

Davina Stevens

Director of Fundraising and Networking

Davina Stevens is a serial entrepreneur whose inspiring life story reflects her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Born and raised in the United Kingdom, she carries a deep-seated love for Nigeria—a nation she has embraced as her own in her quest to create lasting impact.

...more about Davina Stevens

A Unique Blend of Expertise

With degrees in Journalism, Political Science, and Digital Media, Davina possesses a powerful combination of skills that fuel her mission to drive transformative change. Her more than 20 years of experience as a marketing consultant in the United Kingdom have honed her ability to navigate complex challenges and develop innovative strategies that enable businesses to thrive.

Champion for the Underdog

Davina is more than a seasoned professional—she is a compassionate advocate for those without a voice. Her friends often describe her as a champion for the underdog, always ready to stand up for the marginalised and underserved. Her work is driven by empathy and a deep belief in the power of kindness, community, and shared purpose.

Passion for Nigeria and Empowerment

In recent years, Davina has turned her focus towards Nigeria, dedicating her time and expertise to empowering individuals and communities. She believes that education, mentorship, and community support are the keys to unlocking potential and fostering sustainable development. Her work is a testament to her belief that positive change begins with uplifting others, and she has been at the forefront of initiatives that provide opportunities to those in need.

A Legacy of Resilience and Vision

Davina’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by resilience, vision, and an unrelenting commitment to fostering progress. Her story is not just one of corporate success but of a profound impact on the lives she touches. She exemplifies how dedication and empathy can create ripples of change, inspiring hope and empowering communities to envision brighter futures.

A Beacon of Hope

As the Director of Fundraising and Networking, Davina Stevens continues to be a beacon of hope, compassion, and empowerment. Her efforts bridge gaps, build connections, raise funds for charity interventions and catalyse positive transformation in every sphere she touches. With her leading the charge, the promise of brighter days shines ever closer for the communities and individuals she so passionately serves.

Augustine Ibhagbosoria Eigbe, Ph.D

Director of Strategic Development

Dr Augustine Ibhagbosoria Eigbe is a visionary advocate for human rights and participatory development with a passion for creating impactful, sustainable change in society. His work spans across academia, business, and philanthropy, embodying a deep commitment to improving lives and empowering communities.

...more about Augustine Ibhagbosoria Eigbe

Academic Excellence

Dr Eigbe’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State. Building on his passion for development, he pursued a Master’s degree in Development Communication, where his dissertation focused on “Participatory Communication Strategy for Sustainable Constituency Project Implementation in Edo State, Nigeria.”

His doctoral research delved into addressing irregular migration through gender-sensitive participatory approaches, a critical issue affecting vulnerable populations in Edo State and beyond.

Professional Acumen

A successful entrepreneur, Dr Eigbe has built a thriving career in diverse industries, including real estate, construction, and agriculture. His expertise extends to attracting investors and fostering investments in corporate projects, driving growth and innovation.

Philanthropic Leadership

As the President and Founder of Osaivbie Global Foundation, Dr Eigbe leads initiatives aimed at uplifting the poor, vulnerable, and marginalised groups in society. Under his leadership, the foundation has implemented transformative programs, such as a two-week free medical care campaign in 2013. This initiative, executed in partnership with the Moses Lake Medical Team from Washington State, USA, and the Oredo Local Government Council, provided critical healthcare services to communities in Edo State.

A Catalyst for Change

Dr Eigbe’s commitment to participatory development is evident in his advocacy for inclusive approaches that empower individuals and communities. Through his work with the foundation and as Director of Strategic Development, he continues to champion innovative strategies that address systemic challenges and promote sustainable growth.

Visionary Leadership

Dr Augustine Ibhagbosoria Eigbe’s diverse expertise, combined with his dedication to social justice and empowerment, positions him as a transformative leader in the fields of development and human rights. His efforts to bridge the gap between academia, business, and philanthropy underscore his unwavering commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

IJATO MARIAGORETTI UGBAGWU

Director of Child Care & Special Needs.

MARIAGORETTI  is an avowed child rights advocate and volunteers as an assistant in a special needs school for children. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a Masters of science in Banking and Finance. She is also a Chartered account of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.(ACCA).

Babawale ‘Sayo Okunola

Director of Operations

Babawale was born in Ile Ife, Osun State, Nigeria; over five decades ago. A Sociology & Anthropology graduate of 1993, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile Ife; with a post graduate diploma in Financial Management (1996) from University of Ibadan, Ibadan. He has over the years gone for many short courses in different specialisations ranging from Business Innovation, Strategic Leadership, Renewable Energy, Entrepreneurship, Public Speaking, both locally and internationally.

...more about Babawale ‘Sayo Okunola

A Fellow of several professional bodies such as, The Chartered Institute of Loans & Risk Management (CILRM) and also Institute of Management Consultant (IMC) etc.

In over 25years, he has worked at management level of several organisations, some as founders and some as cofounders. He currently sits on the board of several organisations e.g. Climate Finance Advisory, SMEFUNDS Capital, whose core mandate is to facilitate finance for renewable energy projects.  He has received many awards of contributions in fields of deep interest e.g. Nigerian Institute of Management (N.I.M) PRESTIGIOUS AWARD, 2013

He is a Public Speaker, Investor, Mentor, Global Paradigm Shift Analyst, Business Consultant, Change Management Consultant and Collaborator in numerous development projects. He currently drives expansion and upscale of multimillion-dollar renewable energy companies in Nigeria and Africa.

Suubi Audi

Director of Legal Unit

Suubi Audi, a Ugandan born Nigerian can be aptly described as a vast personality. A legal Practitioner, humanitarian and Serial Entrepreneur.
She is a graduate of Law from the University of Reading, UK (2010) and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2012.

...more about Suubi Audi

She is Senior Partner Rohi Legal Consult, CEO of Shairgain Limited an organic hair and skincare product & service company located in Abuja.
She spent 3 years of her professional career you in the creative/concept & business development consultation, administrative & Human Resource sector before she ventured into entrepreneurship.
She has partnered with many humanitarian organizations.
As a Humanitarian & great lover of children, she strongly believes that the world would be a better place if people thought generationally and are more compassionate towards the predicament of others. She has an affinity for loyalty and effective service to humanity.

Jacob Edi

Director, Investigation and Strategy.

Jacob Edi is a journalist with cognate experience which has spanned over three decades.
He worked with most of the present-day national dailies and majors in reporting politics.
He was at different times Secretary and then Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Abuja council before venturing into partisan politics.

In 2011 he was appointed Special Adviser in charge of Media and Strategy to the Government of Kogi state. He was later to join the APC as Head of Research and Documentation at the National Secretariat.

...more about Jacob Edi

Edi, is the CEO/Founder WhatDoYouWant Nigeria Ltd, a service company. He also co-founded an online Publication, National Accord.
A graduate of Political Science, Edi also studied Mass Communication and has an MSc, in Peace and Conflict Resolution.
A traditional title holder, Edi hails from Adumwoiwo, Kogi state.