Development and Research Specialist, Centre For Informtion Technology and Development
For Sani Saidu Muhammad, the NIERA Policy Fellowship represents a defining step toward amplifying his impact as a researcher and development practitioner committed to advancing community resilience and evidence-based policymaking. As a Development and Research Specialist at the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), Sani brings rich experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation, and climate adaptation initiatives across Northern Nigeria.
His professional journey has bridged both governmental and non-governmental sectors, including a tenure as Senior Assistant at the National Assembly, where he gained firsthand insight into legislative processes and policy formulation. At CITAD, Sani has led and contributed to diverse programs focused on youth engagement, community empowerment, and protection, emphasizing the role of participatory research in shaping inclusive development outcomes.
Growing up in Northern Nigeria has deeply shaped his motivation to empower underserved communities through education, climate resilience, and youth-focused initiatives. Through collaborations with local and international partners, Sani has designed and implemented interventions that translate research into real-world change, showcasing the power of practical, evidence-informed solutions to transform lives.
The NIERA Policy Fellowship provides him with the opportunity to further deepen his expertise, collaborate with like-minded changemakers, and apply research-driven approaches to complex development challenges. His goal is to strengthen his ability to integrate research, policy, and practice in advancing sustainable, community-led development.
“Growing up in Northern Nigeria, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of evidence-based action in changing lives. The NIERA Policy Fellowship allows me to refine my ability to turn research into real impact — empowering communities, influencing policy, and building resilience where it’s needed most.” — Sani Saidu Muhammad
Sani was paired with NIERA researcher Dr. Abiola Oyebanjo to develop a concept note exploring Reducing the Learning Gap: Evidence on Remedial Learning and Teacher Coaching in Northern Nigeria.
You can engage more with Sani through his LinkedIn profile.