Amina Salihu, a feminist, farmer, and philanthropist, currently serves as the acting Deputy Director of the MacArthur Foundation Africa office. With a background in academia and policy consulting, Amina’s expertise lies in gender, inclusion, politics, and policy. Having taught public policy at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria from 1993 to 2000, Amina’s academic pursuits culminated in a PhD in Public Policy from the University of Abuja. Her doctoral thesis played a pivotal role in shaping the National Assembly gender policy, in collaboration with the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies.
A seasoned innovator, Amina has contributed significantly to policy development and implementation. Notable projects include the design of the digital Nigeria National Sexual Offender Database in 2018 and the creation of the FCT town hall and helpline system during her tenure as senior special assistant to the minister of Nigeria’s federal capital from 2004 to 2007. Amina’s advocacy extends beyond academia and policy circles. She has authored numerous essays, chapters, and articles on women’s and girls’ rights, security, business environment, accountability, and disability rights. Her contributions have earned her recognition as a member of international and national political science associations, as well as the Chartered Institute of Management Consultants.
In addition to her professional engagements, Amina serves in various advisory roles to the private sector, government, and international organizations. She chaired the technical working group on gender, employment, and inclusion of the Nigeria Agenda 2050 visioning process in 2021 and served on the Governing Council of Ekiti State University from 2018 to 2022. Amina also holds positions as the pioneer Dean of Faculty at the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance and as a board member of GSK Nigeria plc.
Beyond her professional commitments, Amina is dedicated to philanthropy and community development. She chairs the Hadis Foundation Board of Trustees and sits on the Advisory Board of the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI).
Moreover, Amina is a devoted mother, balancing her professional achievements with her responsibilities at home.
Job: Acting Deputy Director of the MacArthur Foundation Africa office
Location: Nigeria
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