I have always been interested in sustainable development and smart cities. My previous training andwork experience are some of the preparations for such an assignment in a multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary team.
As an Economist with interests in Development and The Environment, it is very easy for me to apply theprinciples of Economic science to drive people’s passion and interests to be positive stakeholders in suchprojects. Getting the buy-in of the people by making them see the direct benefits which are alsodelivered as close as possible to the recipients. My knowledge of Economics of Regulation will also beuseful in designing workable and simple rules.
Coming from Nigeria and having practical experience of poverty and inequality which are some of themajor drivers of degradation, I am well placed to help turn such challenges to immense opportunitiesthat will drive smart and sustainable cities. Some of areas include waste management / engineering,water supplies, transportation, urban renewal and functional education. For instance, wastemanagement in poor nations may be smarter if the model is pay the polluter. This will make waste towealth or power have positive impacts at the micro (household) levels.
My experience with strategies, project and change management will also be very handy. Changemanagement techniques help greatly to make projects successful and accepted. I also have qualityexperience in cost management and value optimization. Designed and implemented several cost savingsolutions in the banks where I worked. My current work involves the use of alternative energy andmaking them accessible. Harnessing local resources to boost energy supply and efficient utilization withoptimal reward system are some values I bring to the projects. It may also be possible to help attractsome funding supports to the projects through some of my current partners.
I had been involved with the Indian communities in Nigeria in the past. Travelling and living in the ruralareas or strange places are parts of my routines. It is my desire to contribute to the success of thisprojects in India and look forward to the team replicating them in others parts of the World includingAfrica.