ABOUT OUR FOUNDER
Prof. Stephen Sinikiem Azaiki, PhD, OON, is a distinguished agronomist, academic, statesman, and philanthropist. His contributions to education, governance, agriculture, and community development have left an indelible mark on Nigeria and the global academic and socio-political landscape. As the founder of the Azaiki Foundation, Prof. Azaiki has dedicated his life to empowering individuals, preserving cultural heritage, and driving innovation for sustainable development.
Educational QUALIFICATIONS
Prof. Azaiki’s impressive academic journey reflects his commitment to lifelong learning and excellence:
- D.Sc. in Personnel Management – 2021
- PhD in Personnel Management – 2017
- MBA in Project Management – Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), 2001
- PhD in Agriculture (Biological Sciences) – Ukrainian Agricultural University, Kiev, 1991
- M.Sc. in Agronomy (Plant Protection) – Ukrainian Agricultural University, Kiev, 1986
- Grade 1 Certificate – 1979
He has also attended short-term programs and courses at some of the world’s leading institutions, including:
- Harvard University
- Oxford University
- Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
- University of Abidjan
Work Experience
- Adjunct Professor of Agriculture (Agronomy) – University of Life and Environmental Sciences, Kiev, Ukraine (till date).
- Adjunct Professor of Agriculture (Agronomy) – Institute of Potato Research, Nemecheva, Ukraine (till date).
- National Director, National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Abuja – 2007–2010.
- State Coordinator, NDE (Rivers State) – 1999–2003.
- Pioneer Commissioner for Agriculture, Bayelsa State – 1997–1999.
- Honorary Professor of Conflict and Crisis Management, Interregional Academy of Personnel Management, Kiev, Ukraine.
Appointments
- Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, Niger Delta University – 2017–2018
- Member, Governing Council, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State – 2013–2016
- Honorary Special Adviser on Education and Capacity Building – 2010–2015
- Honorary Special Adviser on Agriculture, Bayelsa State Government – 2013
- Member, Governing Council, Federal University of Technology, Akure – 2009–2012
- Secretary to the Bayelsa State Government – 2002–2003, reappointed 2003–2006
- Served as Senior Special Adviser in several ministries including Special Duties, Police Affairs, Youth Development, and the Federal Capital Territory
COMMUNITY SERVICE
- Established the Institute of Science and Technology, Yenagoa – 2015
- Built Azaiki Museum of Niger Delta and African Arts – 2015
- Built Azaiki Public Library – 2010/2011
- Built Yenebebeli Anglican Church – 2010/2011
- Built St. Andrew Primary School, Yenebebeli – 1998/1999
- Contributed to community development with schools, skills acquisition centers, and health facilities in Bayelsa State.
TRAVELS/VISITS/STUDIES
- Prof. Azaiki has visited over 90 countries including Russia, Germany, France, Britain, China, and the United States.
ACTIVITIES
- Founder and Coordinator, National Think Tank Nigeria (NTTN) – 2007–present
- President, Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC), Nigeria – 2019–2023
- Vice Chairman, World Bank/IMF Parliamentary Network – 2021–2023
- President, International Society of Comparative Education, Science, and Technology (ISCEST), Nigeria – 2014–2017
- President, World Environmental Foundation for Africa (WEMFFA) – 1993–2003
POLITICS
- Honourable Member (9th National Assembly) – House of Representatives, Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency, Bayelsa State – 2019–2023
DIRECTOR POSITIONS
- Served on boards of Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc,
- Bayelsa State Development & Investment Cooperation (BDIC),
- Bayelsa State Agricultural Development Board.
PUBLICATIONS
- Prof. Steve Azaiki has published extensively