Dr. Charles Diji Akinola stands at the intersection of policy, governance, and development — a dynamic Nigerian statesman whose work over the past three decades has left a profound impact across the spheres of public administration, institutional reform, and sustainable development in Africa.
With an academic background rooted in agriculture, rural development, and public policy, Dr. Akinola’s career reflects a deep commitment to translating big ideas into pragmatic solutions that improve lives. His leadership philosophy is grounded in innovation, systems thinking, and collaborative governance — values that have consistently defined his approach to both national and international engagements.
Most recently, Dr. Akinola served as Chief of Staff to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and before that as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State, where he played a pivotal role in steering reform-oriented governance and development-focused policymaking. Prior to that, he was the Director-General of the Office of Economic Development and Partnerships (OEDP), an agency he helped establish to drive public-private partnerships and attract development finance to the state. Under his stewardship, the OEDP became a model for how subnational governments in Nigeria can creatively mobilize resources and expertise for economic transformation.
Dr. Akinola’s influence, however, goes well beyond Nigeria’s borders. He has worked extensively as a development policy advisor and institutional strengthening expert with several international organizations, including the World Bank, the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). His focus has consistently been on helping governments improve performance, expand opportunities for citizens, and build resilient institutions capable of sustaining progress.
A respected scholar and speaker, Dr. Akinola has taught at the Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria and served in various academic capacities, including at the prestigious Aspen Institute. He is also a fellow of the Salzburg Global Seminar and the African Leadership Initiative, platforms that have enabled him to contribute to broader conversations about Africa’s place in a changing world.
A testament to his global standing, Dr. Akinola serves as the only Nigerian member of the Dean’s Council of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government — an advisory body that supports the School’s mission to improve public leadership and address the world’s most pressing challenges. His role on the Council reflects a growing recognition of the importance of African perspectives in shaping global policy dialogues.
Dr. Akinola is passionate about building the next generation of leaders. Through mentorship, writing, and public service, he continues to inspire young Africans to think critically, act boldly, and lead ethically. His legacy is one of bridge-building — between academia and policy, vision and execution, local realities and global strategies.
In an era demanding bold leadership and inclusive innovation, Dr. Charles Akinola remains a quiet but formidable force shaping Africa’s development narrative — with intellect, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the power of good governance.