As Nigeria looks toward the next generation of leaders, voices like Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo offer a compelling case for a new kind of politics
By Lukman Omikunle | Newsheadline247
Policy Strategist, Political Visionary: Meet Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo… Her Plans to Power Change from Grassroots
In an era where Nigerians are increasingly calling for competence and integrity in governance, Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo stands out as a shining example of technocratic excellence, global exposure, and an unwavering commitment to public service.
With a formidable résumé that spans over two decades across multinational corporations and strategic UK government departments, Okuboyejo brings a refreshing blend of private sector precision and public policy intelligence to the political space. Her journey from the oilfields of the North Sea to the corridors of Whitehall, and now to community-building in her ancestral Ado-Odo/Ota homeland, tells the story of a woman driven not just by ambition—but by purpose.
“I have learnt that the synergy of creativity and experience consistently delivers success,” she says with calm conviction. “I believe politics can benefit from that same balance.”
From Oil Giants to the Ministry of Defence
A petroleum engineer by training, she transitioned seamlessly from technical roles in oil and gas with ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Centrica, into policy-making at the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and later, as Chief of Staff at the Defence Infrastructure Organisation under the UK Ministry of Defence. She is currently a Cyber Risk Consultant at the UK’s National Energy System Operator.
Her contributions to national energy security, information risk governance, and cybersecurity have earned her a respected place among professionals working to protect the UK’s critical infrastructure. And yet, she remains firmly connected to her roots.
A Technocrat with a Deep Sense of Heritage
Born to Nigerian parents studying in the UK in the 1970s, Okuboyejo’s heritage has been a constant compass. Her NGO, the Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Renaissance Project (TAORP), reflects her commitment to education, human capital development, and local empowerment in Ado-Odo/Ota, Ogun State.
“TAORP is my way of honouring my grandfather and father—community advocates whose legacies I am proud to continue,” she explains. “What we do may seem small, but the smiles of the children we support keep us going.”
A Fresh Voice in Nigerian Politics
In the last general election, Okuboyejo took her passion for service a step further by contesting for office. Though unsuccessful, the experience only reinforced her resolve.
“Politics is a marathon, not a sprint,” she reflects. “I now understand that you need to build trust, earn your stripes, and never lose sight of why you came.”
Her political philosophy is rooted in the belief that diasporan Nigerians—particularly those with technical, policy, and leadership experience—must play an active role in reshaping the country.
“The Nigerian diaspora can contribute far more than just remittances. With the right policy environment, we could unlock $100 billion annually in investment. But first, we must rebuild trust,” she argues.
Breaking Glass Ceilings in Male-Dominated Fields
In the highly competitive and male-dominated field of engineering and cybersecurity, Okuboyejo has remained unfazed. She credits her upbringing for instilling in her the belief that gender should never be a barrier.
“I never saw myself as a woman in engineering. I saw myself as a human being with goals,” she says. “And my parents encouraged me to always aim for excellence, regardless of the environment.”
Her wide range of professional certifications—including CISM, GICSP, and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor—underscores her technical credibility.
Bridging Policy and People
With three academic degrees—including an Executive Master’s in Public Administration from the London School of Economics and Political Science—she is uniquely equipped to bridge policy ideals with on-the-ground realities.
“My time in the UK Civil Service taught me that private sector ideals cannot simply be transposed into government. You need experience, empathy, and structure. I bring all three.”
A Role Model for Young Nigerians
Okuboyejo, fondly known as NaijaBabe, has become something of an icon in the diaspora community—celebrated not just for her trailblazing career, but for her authenticity and community spirit.
To young Nigerians, especially women, she offers this advice, “Don’t ignore the power of networks. Seek mentors. And remember—success isn’t gendered. It’s earned.”
As Nigeria looks toward the next generation of leaders, voices like Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo offer a compelling case for a new kind of politics: one grounded in merit, community, and an unshakeable belief that change is not only possible—it is overdue. Read More
