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abigail kusimopgs

@abigailkusimopgs

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Senior development researcher and policy strategist focused on inclusion.

Nigeria

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What I'm looking for

I seek senior roles where I can lead evidence-driven research and policy translation, work with governments and civil society on inclusion, and influence programs that improve education and protection for marginalized groups.

I am a development researcher and policy strategist with over a decade of experience leading qualitative and quantitative research on girls’ education, gender norms, disability inclusion, and marginalised communities across Nigeria.

I have designed and supervised large-scale field research (FGDs, KIIs, surveys), engaged community stakeholders, and translated evidence into policy frameworks, advocacy tools, and government reforms, with work used by governments and civil society.

My notable achievements include leading national research for TechHerNG on online violence affecting queer communities and marginalized girls and women, developing inclusive education frameworks with LASODA and the Ministry of Education, and facilitating legislative and evidence-use workshops with RID Nigeria.

I hold a PhD in Policy & Strategic Studies (Best Graduating PhD Student, 2023) and combine rigorous research, MEL practice, and stakeholder engagement to drive policy change and improve educational and social outcomes for vulnerable groups.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Lead Consultant

Current

Aravista Consult Limited

Aug 2025 - Present (7 months)

Leads applied research and policy advisory projects on gender inclusion and private‑sector development across Africa, driving data‑led fundraising and producing policy briefs that inform government and donor decision‑making.

Research Design Policy Analysis Stakeholder Engagement Fundraising Strategy Quantitative Methods Qualitative Methods

Current

Independent Research Consultant

Current

Independent Consultant

Mar 2023 - Present (3 years)

Led national research on online violence affecting LGBTQ+ youth and women with disabilities (350+ surveys, 23 FGDs, 11 KIIs), produced policy briefs and advocacy tools used by civil society, and trained policymakers on evidence use.

Survey Design Ethical Research Policy Translation Advocacy Data Quality Assurance

Research & Insight Analyst

FIT Africa Advisory Ltd

Sep 2024 - May 2025 (8 months)

Designed and delivered the FIT Talent Accelerator training 50+ practitioners in MEL and led impact research informing Junior Achievement Nigeria’s 2025 strategy and USAID SARD rapid assessment recommendations.

Capacity Building Impact Evaluation Qualitative Research Report Writing Stakeholder Engagement Data Analysis

Research & Media Consultant

Urbangidi Media

Nov 2019 - Feb 2023 (3 years 3 months)

Led qualitative and quantitative research projects to inform development communication and policy strategies, translating findings into actionable recommendations for clients.

Qualitative Research Quantitative Research Media Strategy Report Writing Policy Translation

Project Manager / Researcher

Global Hope Integrated Empowerment Foundation

Sep 2015 - Feb 2022 (6 years 5 months)

Designed and implemented gender inclusion and social protection projects using MEL frameworks, conducted community needs assessments, and built partnerships to strengthen policy influence and program reach.

Project Management Partnership Building Training Facilitation Program Design

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Dataleum Academy

Diploma, Data Analytics & Business Intelligence

2023 - 2023

Completed a diploma in Data Analytics & Business Intelligence to strengthen quantitative and data management skills.

Covenant University

Doctor of Philosophy, Policy & Strategic Studies

2019 - 2023

Completed a PhD in Policy & Strategic Studies with research focused on inclusive education and policy translation; recognized as Best Graduating PhD Student in 2023.