Dr. Adedeji Ajani Appointed as Director, Programs, Innovation, and Knowledge Management at Africa Fintech Network
The Africa Fintech Network is pleased to announce the recruitment of Dr. Adedeji Hamed Ajani as the Director of Programs, Innovation, and Knowledge Management. Dr. Ajani is a globally recognised advocate for innovation aimed at social good, with extensive expertise in artificial intelligence ethics, digital finance, program management, and sustainability strategies. His wealth of experience in these areas promises to further strengthen the network’s impact across Africa’s fintech ecosystem.
Dr. Ajani brings over 13 years of experience as an innovation consultant, specialising in artificial intelligence (AI), digital financial services, and technology ventures. His career has spanned various roles, including serving as Chief Digital Officer at Leads Innovation Limited and heading the Accelerator and Special Projects Division at Opolo Global Innovation, where he focused on innovation enablement, start-up incubation, and idea acceleration. His vast networks within Africa’s innovation and technology ecosystem make him a valuable asset to the Africa Fintech Network.
A proven leader in building innovation ecosystems, Dr. Ajani has collaborated with both local and international partners to develop policies and frameworks that promote the scaling of entrepreneurs, innovators, and start-ups. His dedication to nurturing talent and supporting innovative ventures is reflected in his mentorship roles at various institutions, including the Founders Institute, and his position as the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Innovation Working Group, under the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology, Kwara State, Nigeria.
Dr. Ajani’s academic background further solidifies his leadership credentials. He holds a PhD in Educational Technology from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, and has published over 22 highly regarded research articles. His research, focusing on the integration of technology in finance and education, has garnered international recognition, particularly in areas such as AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Edtech, Fintech policy, AI ethics, and data science. His scholarly work has earned him travel grants and research scholarships worth up to $50,000, positioning him as one of the leading voices in AI and Extended Reality adoption in Africa.
Dr. Ajani’s academic and professional affiliations are extensive, reflecting his commitment to innovation and research. He is an alumnus of Osun State University and the University of Ilorin in Nigeria, as well as YES Germany. Additionally, he is an active member of several esteemed professional bodies and associations, including Emerging Technology for Emerging Markets (E4E), Black in AI, the Artificial Intelligence Research Council (AIRC), UNESCO-UNEVOC TVET, and Harvard University’s Mechanism Design for Social Good (MD4SG).
As Dr. Ajani steps into his new role at the Africa Fintech Network, his leadership in innovation, his global connections, and his strategic insights will undoubtedly drive forward the organisation’s mission to empower Africa’s fintech industry and foster growth through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
The Africa Fintech Network looks forward to the exciting journey ahead with Dr. ‘Deji Ajani at the helm of its innovation and knowledge management initiatives.
