In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

The Event Place
Along Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Way
Bauchi, Bauchi, 740102
Nigeria

Aliyu Ahmad

Senior Azure Cloud Engineer Data and AI at Microsoft

Ahmad Aliyu is a Senior Azure Cloud Engineer specializing in Data and AI at Microsoft. Originally from Bauchi State, Ahmad earned his BSc with First Class Honors from the University of East London, followed by a Master’s degree with Distinction from Coventry University. He continued his studies at the University of Aberdeen, where he obtained a PhD in Computer Engineering in 2018. Before joining Microsoft, Ahmad played a key role at British Telecom, contributing to the redesign of the UK’s 999 emergency platform. His innovative use of data and AI greatly enhanced the platform’s capabilities, leading to significant improvements in emergency response and saving lives across the country. Ahmad’s blend of academic excellence, impactful real-world contributions, and commitment to social good has established him as a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the fields of Data and AI.

Aliyu Tanko

Head of BBC Hausa Service

Aliyu Tanko is the Head of BBC Hausa Service, overseeing a team across Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, Cameroon, and London. Under his leadership, BBC Hausa has become the most influential African language service, excelling in radio and online reach. He drives editorial content, including daily radio and digital platforms, introducing impactful programs like Mahangar Zamani and Hikayata. Previously Assistant West Africa Editor, he managed outputs for Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and Pidgin services. Aliyu pioneered BBC Hausa's digital platform as its first Digital Editor and contributed to programs like Focus on Africa. A BBC-certified trainer, he has mentored journalists globally. He holds an MA from Birkbeck College, University of London.

Bayo Omoboriowo

Visual Storyteller and Documentary Photographer Madhouse, Tikera Africa

Bayo Omoboriowo, MFR, is a renowned visual storyteller, cultural anthropologist, and documentary photographer known for his innovative narratives and commitment to cultural preservation. Over a decade-long career, he founded Madhouse and Tikera Africa to empower emerging artists and drive creativity in the industry. His accolades include the MTN Afrinolly Film Competition and Sundance Institute Film Prize. Bayo’s work has been featured on CNN, BBC, Al Jazeera, and The New York Times, establishing him as a global figure in storytelling. He holds a master’s degree in arts and cultural management from King’s College London and a bachelor’s from the University of Lagos. As the official photographer to former President Muhammadu Buhari (2015–2023), Bayo captured defining moments in Nigeria’s history, including the Guinness World Record-winning Discover Nigeria photo book. Honored with the National Productivity Order of Merit and MFR, his clients include NLNG, USAID, and Dell Nigeria.

Hauwa Yusuf Alhassan

Advocate for Social Justice

Dr. Hauwa Alhassan is a renowned advocate for social justice in Nigeria, with over two decades of impactful work empowering youth, advancing women’s initiatives, and transforming education. She founded the Muslim Youth Conference, addressing drug abuse and gang violence among youth, and the Arewa Women in Diaspora network, which has provided mentorship and millions of naira in support for local initiatives. Dr. Hauwa played a pivotal role in securing the release of the "Kebbi 11" abducted girls, offering continued counseling for their reintegration. Currently serving as Technical Adviser on Basic Education for Jigawa State, she champions girl child education, combats child labor, and mobilizes efforts against human trafficking. Internationally recognized, she has been named among Africa’s top 100 social influencers and received the Nigerian Student Union’s Ambassador Award. Dr. Hauwa’s work exemplifies resilience and dedication, driving positive change and social equity across Nigeria.

Ibrahim Zanna Sunoma

Advocate for Child Rights and Climate Action Borno State Children’s Parliament

Ibrahim Zanna Sunoma, from Bama, Nigeria, is a dedicated advocate for child rights and climate action. Beginning his activism at just 9 years old, Ibrahim became a key figure in the historic signing of the Child Rights Act in Borno State as Speaker of the Borno State Children’s Parliament. Later, as Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s National Children’s Parliament, he represented millions of children, championing education and safety. Internationally, Ibrahim has spoken at the Children Affected by Armed Conflict (CAAC) conference in Nairobi and the African Union’s Peace and Security Council meeting in Gambia, engaging with global leaders to address youth challenges. As a Global Campaign Adviser for Save the Children’s Generation Hope initiative and an Ambassador for Child Refugees, Ibrahim exemplifies youth-driven leadership, inspiring transformative global change through his commitment to child rights and climate action.

Maryam Bukar Hassan

Poet, Speaker, and Advocate for Gender Equality True My Voice Initiative

Maryam Bukar Hassan, known as Alhanislam, is a Nigerian poet, speaker, and advocate for gender equality, peace, and social justice. Using poetry and public speaking, she amplifies marginalized voices, especially women’s. Alhanislam has performed on global stages, including COP28 and UNGA 2024's Summit of the Future, and spoken at key events like the Global Women’s Forum in Paris and the UN SDG Awards in Rome. She founded the "True My Voice" initiative, empowering youth through creative advocacy, which was recognized as a UN SDG Awards finalist. Her "Peace Begins with Me" campaign, co-curated with UN Peacekeeping, highlights art's role in reconciliation. Honored with the Sustainable Africa Award at COP28, Alhanislam exemplifies transformative advocacy, blending art and activism to inspire lasting societal change

Sam Obafemi

Business Community Specialist

Sam Obafemi, known as "The Octopus" for his problem-solving expertise, specializes in business and revenue solutions through communities, memberships, and subscriptions. With over 20 years of experience in industries like Manufacturing, ICT, and Oil and Gas, he is a certified expert in Anger Mastery, Emotional Intelligence, and Business Strategy. Sam holds a B.Tech in Computer Science from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, an MBA from UBIS Geneva, and an MSc in Management from Ascencia Business School, Paris. He also earned a DBA (Honoris Causa) from Prowess University in 2024 and serves on multiple advisory boards. As Nigeria's first Certified Anger Mastery Coach from Century Anger Management Institute (USA), Sam is a sought-after advisor, speaker, and author of influential works such as Marketing Without a Budget and Fearless Seed.

Somachi Chris-Asoluka

Chief Executive Officer, Tony Elumelu Foundation Tony Elumelu Foundation

Somachi Chris-Asoluka is the CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Africa's leading philanthropy empowering entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries. She drives initiatives that foster economic growth through training, mentoring, and funding. Previously, as Director of Partnerships and Communications, she forged collaborations with institutions like the EU, UNDP, and Google, amplifying the Foundation's impact. Somachi serves as Treasurer of WINGS, Advisory Board Member for Michigan State University's Alliance for African Partnership, and contributes to the World Economic Forum EDISON Alliance. A Summa Cum Laude economics graduate from Saint Mary’s College of California, she holds a Master’s in International and Development Economics from Yale University. Somachi's leadership continues to inspire innovation and economic empowerment across Africa