Ambassador Abdulgafar

Ambassador Abdulgafar Shola Jimoh is a distinguished leader, development professional and serial entrepreneur with a strong background in humanitarian work, human rights, women, children, and youth empowerment, good governance, peace building, green innovation, as well as auditing, finance, and administration. He holds a Diploma, BSc, and MBA in Banking and Finance from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. He is also a member of the Accounting Technicians Scheme in West Africa under the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and a Chevening Fellowship UK Interviewee, demonstrating his potential for leadership, innovation, creativity, and empowerment.
Abdulgafar is the Founder and CEO of Sunshine Gender Humanitarian and Human Rights Initiative, a nationally recognized non-profit organization in Nigeria. He is also a strong partner and Ambassador of The Empowering Women Middle East (UAE), founded by Her Excellency Claudia Pinto, Head of Philanthropy and Sustainability Advisor to HH Sheikh Marwan bin Muhammad bin Rashid (UAE).
Currently, Abdulgafar serves as the Managing Consultant of Al-Tijarati Islamic Finance and Investment Company, leveraging his expertise in finance and administration to drive growth and impact. He was also a former Reconciliation Officer of Albabelo Trading Company Limited, a company focused on building materials and food and beverages. Additionally, he served as the former Subsidiary Governor of Harmony Holding Limited in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, where he worked in various subsidiaries, including Harmony Investment and Property Development and Harmony Transport Services Limited, implementing strong internal control processes and block linkages, ensuring the growth of the holding company and all its subsidiaries.
With expertise across many industries and sectors, he has made significant impacts within Nigeria and globally. As a former Union Leader at Ahmadu Bello University and former Deputy Chief of Staff to the Vice President of the National Association of Nigeria Students, Abdulgafar has showcased his leadership prowess.
A Certified Human Rights Advocate, Gender-Based Violence Instructor, Cultural Diversity and Inclusion expert, and distinguished development professional, Abdulgafar has been recognized globally for his work. He is an Ambassador for several international organizations, including Empowering Women in the Middle East (UAE), My Body is My Body Foundation in New York, and holds the Chair Badge of SDG 2 for the Global Sustainable Future Network in the UK and Member Global Tony Elumelu Foundation Mentorship Guide.
Abdulgafar’s achievements include winning the prestigious FIGHR Prize of Peace in 2021, representing Nigeria. He has collaborated with international NGOs on impactful projects and empowerment programs in Nigeria.