Oluwaseyi Popoola
Consulting Associate
Our gap closer of the month, Oluwaseyi Popoola, Consulting Associate speaks about his work at the Foundation and what he finds most rewarding about it. “Supporting public sector reforms allows me to play a role in enhancing service delivery, promoting accountability, and strengthening institutions that directly affect citizens,” he says.
Please share your educational and professional background
I hold a Master’s degree in Project Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, providing a strong foundation in project execution and technical systems. Professionally, I have held roles in network surveillance, project support, and systems administration, where I developed expertise in monitoring and optimising network systems, supporting project implementation, and ensuring seamless system performance.
Throughout my career, I have continuously enhanced my skills in project management, data analysis, and process improvement through professional certifications and hands-on experience. My well-rounded background equips me to contribute effectively to dynamic and collaborative environments.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the development sector?
Working in the private sector for several years helped me build a solid foundation in process optimisation and collaboration, but I wanted my efforts to go beyond business outcomes and contribute to social development. Joining the Foundation allowed me to align my work with causes I’m passionate about—such as public sector reform and capacity building. The dynamic challenges and opportunities in this sector keep me motivated, constantly learning, and striving for excellence every day.
What do you do at the Foundation?
At the Foundation, my role focuses on supporting the design, implementation, and adaptation of the Consulting Team’s programmes and projects. I contribute to planning and executing programme logistics, ensuring smooth communication with stakeholders and partners. I also assist in facilitating programmes, including workshops, discussions, and panel moderation.
What does your typical day look like?
A typical day at the Foundation for me is dynamic and varied, reflecting the diverse nature of the programmes and projects we oversee. I usually begin by reviewing project timelines and updates to ensure all tasks are progressing according to plan. This often includes checking and updating our project management tools to track metrics and maintain transparency across the team.
Throughout the day, I may participate in stakeholder meetings, facilitating discussions with partners or government officials to align on goals and ensure clear communication. I also work on drafting or refining programme materials and reports, supporting programme design and implementation efforts.
Overall, my role involves a balance of strategic planning, collaboration, and hands-on programme support, with each day offering new challenges and opportunities to create meaningful impact.
What makes the work that we do at the Foundation unique?
The work we do at the Foundation is unique because it focuses on supporting public sector reforms that aim to improve the lives of Nigerians. We collaborate closely with the government and private sector partners to enhance service delivery, promote transparency, and drive efficiency in public institutions. By addressing systemic challenges and leveraging data-driven decision-making, we help develop sustainable solutions that empower civil servants and ensure citizens receive quality services. Our commitment is to support a more effective and accountable public sector that directly benefits the Nigerian people.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
What I find most rewarding about my work is the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change that positively impacts the lives of Nigerians. Supporting public sector reforms allows me to play a role in enhancing service delivery, promoting accountability, and strengthening institutions that directly affect citizens.