The Group welcomes Mariam Hamzat as Special Adviser on Global Development

The Corpers’ Journey Advocacy Network (CJAN) welcomed Ms. Mariam Hamzat, a PhD researcher in Marine and Environmental Sciences at Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA, serving as Special Advisor for International Development, Sustainability, Grants and Strategic Partnerships.

Announcing the appointment was Amb. Taiwo Ajayi, founder and chief strategist of Corpers’ Journey Advocacy Network (CJAN) and director of youth policy and advocacy at the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), has described the appointment of Mariam Hamzat as a strategic move aimed at strengthening the organisation’s sustainability, international development, grants and partnership initiatives. He noted that his academic achievements, research expertise and commitment to youth development would add immense value to the organization’s mission of creating opportunities for Nigerian youth.

The appointment, announced by the youth advocacy organization, aims to strengthen CJAN’s efforts in youth development, sustainability advocacy, international collaboration and institutional growth.

According to the organization, Hamzat’s appointment reflects his outstanding contribution to sustainability advocacy, climate education, research, youth development and his commitment to promoting solutions that empower young people and promote sustainable development.

CJAN noted that as it continues to expand its impact and strengthen its institutional capacity, the organization recognizes the importance of engaging professionals with global perspectives and proven experience in development initiatives that benefit youth.

In his new advisory role, Hamzat will provide strategic guidance on international partnerships and stakeholder engagement, grant sourcing and resource mobilization, scholarship and capacity-building opportunities, sustainability and climate-related initiatives, institutional development, youth empowerment programs, and collaborations with development partners, academic institutions and international organizations.

Hamzat is currently pursuing a PhD in Marine and Environmental Sciences at Northeastern University, where his research focuses on improving the resilience of agricultural food systems and exploring how agricultural landscapes can support both farmer livelihoods and ecological sustainability.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Biology from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Nigeria. Beyond academia, she is widely recognized as an environmental journalist and sustainability advocate committed to amplifying community voices in climate and development conversations.

Through research, storytelling and advocacy, she promotes environmental awareness and works to build more equitable and resilient food systems. His work is driven by a passion for translating scientific research into practical knowledge that farmers, communities and policymakers can use to address environmental and development challenges.

Speaking on the appointment, CJAN expressed confidence that Hamzat’s international academic exposure, research expertise and dedication to youth-focused development would significantly contribute to the organisation’s vision of creating opportunities for Nigerian youth, while strengthening its engagement within national and global development ecosystems.

The organization further said that its professional experience and network would be instrumental in advancing strategic initiatives focused on sustainability, international partnerships, youth leadership and long-term institutional development.

Hamzat formally accepted the nomination, pledging to support CJAN’s vision, mission and goals through strategic leadership, professional expertise and collaborative efforts aimed at promoting youth development, sustainability, international partnerships and organizational growth.

The nomination became effective upon its acceptance on June 29, 2026.