Chidi Ezegwu

Professional Background

Chidi Ezegwu is a highly skilled multidisciplinary research, evaluation, and development specialist based in Nigeria who brings over a decade of experience in various fields including education, gender, conflict resolution, reproductive health, media, public policy, and political economy analysis. With a commitment to fostering positive change, Chidi has worked with numerous local, national, and international development organizations, becoming a key player in over 30 donor-funded research and evaluation projects supported by prestigious entities such as the British Council, the European Union, DFID, the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Population Media Centre, UNDP, UNICEF, USAID, and Wikistrat.

Chidi's ability to work collaboratively within diverse multidisciplinary and multicultural teams is one of his standout attributes. Having engaged with professionals from UK, US, Australian, and African institutions throughout his career, he excels in creating synergies that lead to better research outcomes and impactful program implementations. His dedication to using data and reports as tools for change, paired with his systematic approach to evaluation, ensures that projects resonate with intended beneficiaries, thus maximizing their potential for success.

Education and Achievements

Chidi Ezegwu's academic credentials reflect his passion for education and social justice. He embarked on his educational journey with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Government from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, which laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. He expanded his knowledge further by obtaining a Master of Science (MSc) in Political Science from the University of Ibadan, focusing on the complexities of governance and policy-making.

Following this, Chidi pursued a Master's degree in Education, Gender and International Development at the UCL Institute of Education, achieving a distinction that underscores his commitment to excellence and determination. Chidi's pursuit of knowledge culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education and Social Justice from Lancaster University, which has greatly informed his perspectives and methodologies in research.

Research and Publications

Chidi is also an accomplished researcher with over 30 independent and collaborative research publications to his name. His work spans various development themes, showcasing his broad expertise and commitment to advancing knowledge in crucial areas. Additionally, he has delivered numerous presentations at international conferences, sharing insights and findings that contribute to the global discourse on development and social justice. Chidi's research project reports, often grounded in thorough analysis and data, have been instrumental for organizations seeking to enhance their programs and policies.

Chidi’s influence is not just limited to research; he has held several key positions throughout his career, transforming various organizations through insightful analysis and evidence-based recommendations. At the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), where he currently serves as a Research Consultant, he applies his expertise to drive impactful research. Previous roles at institutions such as Lancaster University, British Council, and DFID demonstrate his versatility and adaptability in enhancing educational and social justice outcomes in different contexts.

Community Engagement and Leadership

In addition to his extensive research and consultancy experience, Chidi has also actively engaged in community service and leadership initiatives. Serving as the General Secretary of the Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows Alumni Association in Nigeria (COSFAN) allowed him to contribute to the development of alumni networks while fostering collaboration across sectors. His role as a Mentor at the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission illustrates his commitment to guiding emerging leaders, particularly in the domain of education and social justice.

Chidi's dedication has also seen him undertake various roles that contribute to public health and education in Nigeria. He served as the Nigeria Country Case Study Lead for the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where he provided valuable insights into educational challenges and opportunities in the region. His previous experience as the Gender and Community Development Work stream Leader at The Education Partnership Centre further highlights his dedication to ensuring that vulnerable populations gain access to necessary resources and opportunities for growth.

Conclusion

A visionary with a wealth of experience, Chidi Ezegwu stands out as a leader and innovator in the fields of research, evaluation, and development. His numerous achievements, paired with his strong academic background, underscore a commitment to fostering educational reform and social equity. With a proven track record of working collaboratively and effectively across disciplines, Chidi continues to contribute to meaningful change both within Nigeria and on a broader international scale. As a passionate advocate for young people, education, and gender equality, Chidi remains determined to influence policy and practice, working tirelessly to advocate for the development needs of the communities he serves. For more information about Chidi and his work, you can visit his personal blog at development360.wordpress.com.