Dr. Babatunde Omilola

Biography

Babatunde Omilola is a global development leader with extensive experience in managing responses to unprecedented challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently serving as a World Fellow at Yale's Jackson School of Global Affairs, he oversees the African Development Bank’s multi-billion-dollar initiatives aimed at saving lives and ensuring the livelihoods of citizens across Africa. Previously, Babatunde was the Head of Development Planning at the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in New York, where he led efforts in monitoring the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He co-chaired the United Nations Secretary-General’s High-Level Task Force on Global Food and Nutrition Security. His significant accomplishments include serving as the UNDP’s Regional Practice Leader for poverty reduction and coordinating initiatives for achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Africa. Babatunde has also been the Chief Economist and Head of Policy Strategy for South Africa and has coordinated various initiatives with prominent organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the African Union Commission. Throughout his career, he has delivered development assistance in over 80 countries worldwide, contributing to policies that promote sustainable growth and social equity.

Research Interests