What’s Happening in Nigeria?

A CONVERSATION ON POWER, CORRUPTION, AND MIGRATION

Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation, a cultural powerhouse, and one of the continent’s largest economies, yet it remains overlooked in global conversations. As economic collapse, systemic corruption, and political instability push millions to leave, the stakes for Nigeria and the region are too high to ignore.

On June 14th, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. EST / 3:00 P.M. WAT, tune in to a conversation where experts and thought leaders come together to unpack how greed, corruption, and migration are shaping Nigeria today, and why the world should take notice.

Joining us will be Panelist Dr. Mustapha Kurfi, Associate Professor of Sociology at Bayero University, Moderator Dr. Inya Ode, journalist and media development expert, and our Special Guest Panelist, Rajmohan Gandhi.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS

  • Dr. Inya Ode

    MODERATOR

    Dr. Inya J. Ode is a seasoned broadcaster, media personality, and trained veterinarian who has spent over a decade using the power of dialogue to inform, engage, and inspire. Dr. Ode has hosted a wide range of impactful programs since 2012, including the widely respected Midday Dialogue and Let’s Talk Sundays. Since 2020, she has transitioned from radio into the development sector, where she now works with Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, focusing on values-driven leadership, civic engagement, and nation-building.

    Known for her warm, solutions-oriented style, Dr. Ode connects deeply with her audience on topics that range from politics and governance to family values and everyday challenges. Her passion for communication, paired with her background in science and community engagement, makes her a unique and compelling voice in Nigeria’s media landscape.

  • Dr. Mustapha Kurfi

    PANELIST

    Dr. Mustapha Hashim Kurfi is a scholar of sociology, language, and African studies, currently serving as a Senior Lecturer at Bayero University, Kano in Nigeria. With a Ph.D. in Sociology from Boston University and dual master’s degrees in Sociology (Bayero University, Kano) and International Studies (Ohio University, Athens), Dr. Kurfi brings a rich interdisciplinary lens to his work.

    A leading expert in Ajami and especially Hausa Ajami (the Arabic script used for writing African languages), Dr. Kurfi has authored several groundbreaking works, including Jagoran Koyan Hausa Ajami a Aiwace (A Practical Guide to Learning Hausa Ajami, 2017). He has also been instrumental in digitizing thousands of Ajami manuscripts for the African Ajami Libraries at Boston University, helping preserve linguistic heritage.