Hamzat B. Lawal is a renowned Nigerian activist committed to environmental justice, social accountability, and community development across Africa. As the Founder and Chief Executive of Connected Development (CODE), he spearheads initiatives that empower marginalized communities by promoting transparency and improving public service delivery. In 2012, Hamzat co-founded Follow The Money, a pioneering movement that leverages data analysis and grassroots advocacy to track government spending, ensuring that allocated funds reach and benefit underserved communities. Beyond his leadership roles, he was instrumental in co-convening the Not Too Young To Run movement, which successfully championed the reduction of age limits for political office in Nigeria, encouraging greater youth participation in governance. Recognized internationally for his impact, Hamzat has been honored as a Malala Fund Education Champion and continues to drive change by advocating for the rights of marginalized populations and fostering transparency and accountability in governance.
Andrew Echono is a highly accomplished executive with a distinguished career characterized by effective leadership, strategic foresight, and a proven ability to drive growth and innovation. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England & Wales, and a Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Treasury Management of Nigeria. Additionally, he holds a Business Competence License from the European Council for Business Competence, Vienna. Beginning his professional journey as a Resident Auditor, Andrew has spent over fifteen years excelling in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, internal controls, investment appraisal and advisory, and fund management across both local and international organizations. His extensive experience includes roles at FinBank Plc (now FCMB), Society for Family Health, ICAP Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, FHI360, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Perfect Pitch Consults, and the U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF). Andrew specializes in IFRS reporting, business planning and incubation, insolvency and corporate restructuring, as well as cross-border and international taxation.
Olabisi Babalola is a dedicated healthcare professional with a strong background in nursing, healthcare management, and business administration. As a Registered Nurse (RN) with an MBA and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), she blends clinical expertise with strategic leadership to advance healthcare advocacy and community health initiatives. Passionate about preventive care and chronic disease management, Olabisi is deeply aligned with the FFB Foundation’s mission to combat diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Her expertise has been instrumental in supporting program development, promoting early detection, and improving healthcare access for underserved communities.
Ademola Omoniyi Babalola is a retired Nigerian diplomat who served the nation in various capacities across the globe, with postings in Liberia, the Philippines, the United States, and several other countries. He is the husband of the late Funmilayo Florence Babalola and a dedicated humanitarian. Known for his generosity and commitment to uplifting others, he has sponsored numerous children’s education beyond his own biological family. Ademola continues his impactful work through the FFB Foundation, channeling his time and resources into supporting the needy and advancing the foundation’s mission.
