Okoli, Chinwe

Solution Innovation District, Nigeria

Chinwe Okoli is a seasoned innovation ecosystem builder, entrepreneur, and public policy expert with a strong track record of driving transformative impact across technology, education, and entrepreneurship sectors in Nigeria and Africa. She holds a B.Sc. in Economics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and an M.Sc. in Public Policy and Management from the University of London in addition to various trainings on building innovation ecosystem.

In her current role as Special Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State on Innovation and Business Incubation, she leads the strategic implementation of the Solution Innovation District (SID) -a flagship initiative positioning Anambra State as a leading hub for innovation and technology in Africa. Under her leadership, the State has launched key programs including “Code Anambra” and the “1 Million Anambra Digital Tribe”, aimed at equipping over one million young people with future-ready digital skills.

Chinwe also leads the development of the Anambra State Startup Law and innovation policies designed to foster a conducive business environment, attract investment, and stimulate the growth of tech-enabled startups and SMEs. She oversees the building of a vibrant innovation ecosystem through strategic public-private partnerships and the establishment of infrastructure that supports research, incubation, and commercialization of ideas.

Prior to her current role, Chinwe served as Executive Director of Grand Africa Initiative (GAIN), where she empowered young people from 54 African countries through structured programs in entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and leadership. Through her strategic leadership, GAIN established partnerships with over 20 global institutions, amplifying youth inclusion in economic development.

As Manager of Roar Nigeria Hub and Lion Science Park, she oversaw the incubation of multiple startups many of which attracted angel investment and received global recognition. She also drove partnerships with organizations such as Facebook and Huawei, advanced digital literacy among women and girls, and championed initiatives to promote grassroots innovation.

Chinwe is a member of the Anambra State Education Advisory Council, where she contributes to state-wide education reforms, particularly in embedding technology into classroom learning through the Governor’s Smart Schools Initiative. These efforts have contributed significantly to Anambra achieving the lowest rate of out-of-school children in Nigeria.

She is a published author (A Daunting Odyssey and The Ladder to Academic Excellence) and a recognized thought leader who has spoken at high-level forums including the OACPS Ministerial Forums, the OACPS Business Summit, the World Business Angel Investment Forum (WBAF), and the International Association of Science Parks (IASP).

Chinwe Okoli remains committed to building inclusive innovation ecosystems that empower youth, bridge the digital divide, and accelerate sustainable economic growth across Africa.