Meet the inspiring minds behind FishLead Hub
Dr. Oluyemi K. Gbadamosi (Associate Professor, FUTA)
Dr. Gbadamosi is a distinguished lecturer and researcher at the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology (FAT), Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). With master's degrees from both FUTA and Swansea University (UK) and a Ph.D. in aquaculture, he brings a global perspective to fish nutrition and biotechnology. Currently serving as the research coordinator and vice chairman of the Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON), Ondo State Chapter, he is a driving force in professional development and scientific advancement in the Nigerian fisheries and aquaculture sector.
Dr. Ebinimi J. Ansa (PhD) (National President, FISON & Director, ARAC)
Dr. Ebinimi Ansa is a foremost leader and research director in Africa's aquaculture and blue economy sectors, with over 30 years of research and administrative expertise. She serves as the National President of the Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON) and the Director of the African Regional Aquaculture Centre (ARAC), a specialized department of the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR). Armed with an MSc with Distinction from the University of Lagos and a PhD in Fisheries Biology and Hydrobiology from the University of Port Harcourt, her work prioritizes sustainable farming models, environmental science, and policy advocacy. As the president of the Nigerian Women in Agricultural Research for Development (NiWARD) and a former African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) fellow, she is a fierce advocate for gender inclusion and strategic mentorship, dedicated to driving innovation for the next generation of aquatic researchers and entrepreneurs.
Dr. Victor Tosin Okomoda (PhD) (Senior Scientist, WorldFish Nigeria)
Dr. Victor Okomoda is a distinguished research scientist at WorldFish Nigeria, where he leads initiatives on sustainable aquatic farming and climate-smart innovations. With a PhD in Fisheries from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu and a background as a senior lecturer at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, he has authored over 160 peer-reviewed articles. His work focuses on genetic improvement, catfish production, and "waste-to-wealth" nutritional strategies. Beyond research, Dr. Okomoda is a passionate mentor dedicated to empowering the next generation of African aquaculture leaders.
Mr. Sejiro Michael Oke-Tojinu (MD of Sejfarms Consults Ltd)
Mr. Sejiro Michael Oke-Tojinu is the MD of Sejfarms Consults Ltd. and the founder of the Aquaculture Innovation, Incubation, and Development (AIID) Center. He formerly served as the President of the Lagos State Catfish and Allied Farmers Association (LASCAFAN). A recipient of numerous awards including being named Best Fish Farmer in Lagos State (2020), he is one of the key drivers of Nigeria’s Blue Economy. Over the past 20 years, he has trained and mentored over 5,000 youths and interns in aquaculture across the country. He is a seasoned professional with multiple international and local certifications, widely respected as a facilitator, trainer, and leader in the aquaculture space.
Denise Hearn (Global Aquaculture Educator & Advisor)
Denise’s passion for aquaculture is rooted in her upbringing across Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. This deep connection to Africa, combined with her professional work in Egypt and Madagascar, gives her a unique perspective on the continent's blue economy. After completing her MSc in sustainable aquaculture in the UK, Denise has worked internationally across a diverse range of species. Today, she focuses on making aquaculture education practical and accessible, ensuring that the next generation of African leaders has the relevant skills to succeed.
Ian Wellby (International Advisor & Fish Health Specialist)
Ian is a highly experienced fisheries consultant and educator with a career spanning over 25 years in the UK aquaculture sector. After beginning his career on trout and sea bream farms, he earned his master's degree and spent a decade as a government specialist in fish health, disease, and welfare. A former lecturer and training coordinator, Ian now specializes in fish parasites, pathogens, telemetry, and population surveys.
Dr. Stephen Reichley (Assistant Professor, Mississippi State University)
Dr. Stephen Reichley is an internationally recognized expert in aquatic health and food security. He is an assistant professor at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine and serves as the associate director of the Global Center for Aquatic Health and Food Security and head of the FAO Reference Centre on AMR and Aquaculture Biosecurity. He is the owner and principal at Reichley Consulting and is a certified aquatic veterinarian with extensive experience in the culture of many aquatic species throughout the United States and abroad, having worked across Africa, Asia, and Europe.