Jane Ezirigwe, Ph.D
The Journey
I’m passionate about writing, teaching, and advising—yes, even when it's unsolicited! I love explaining ideas, sharing insights, and showing others the way. Curiosity is my fuel, and I can’t resist the pull of learning something new. Organizing events brings me immense joy, especially when I can guarantee there will be delicious food to enjoy! There's truly no better place to blend all these passions than in academia, where we can learn and have fun simultaneously!
When it comes to writing, I’m in my element. From scholarly articles (quite successful, if I do say so myself) to reflections and short stories.
My journey as a teacher began as early as primary school—perhaps even nursery! I fondly recall helping my peers with their homework whenever playtime allowed.
And God help you (and bless you too) to embark on any endeavour with me around, I’ll be sure to put my two cents in. I simply can’t sit idly by.
When it comes to planning events, you can count on me to bring my A-game and make it a resounding success, regardless of the budget. I make things happen, and I still surprise myself at how seamlessly they come together! Friends, family, and clients affectionately call me the creative advisor, problem solver, magician, and personal coach. I’ve channelled these passions into my professional life, continually sharpening my skills for the greatest impact.
My journey includes over 40 publications in respected research outlets, and my advisory services have helped countless students, family members, and clients ace exams, secure scholarships, earn grant awards and make impacts.
I’ve also had the pleasure of mentoring and coaching students and colleagues in academic work and research methodology, resulting in truly impactful outcomes.
Through collaboration with multidisciplinary researchers, I’ve contributed to meaningful research outputs and secured grants exceeding $2 million. I take pride in organizing successful events—big or small—paying meticulous attention to detail and offering my best advice, even when I’m not the designated coordinator.
From early days of playful teaching and writing to a career dedicated to education and research. From a passion for saying, sharing, and showing to a calling in advocacy and coaching. From a love for organizing events and fixing delicious food, I’ve ventured into event management and catering. I’m here to make meaningful contributions—and to bring a whimsical touch to every project.
Let’s connect and explore how we can create something extraordinary together!
The Job
I am an Associate Professor of Law at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and a Fellow at the Human Rights Research & Education Centre, University of Ottawa. With over 18 years of experience, I have contributed significantly to legal research, advocacy, education, and knowledge mobilization across five continents. I leverage my problem-solving, data analysis, and project management expertise to drive sustainable solutions and address global challenges.
Committed to mainstreaming gender perspectives and racial justice in my research, I employ socio-legal methodologies to produce evidence-based insights. My work includes over 50 publications in esteemed outlets such as Law, Technology and Humans, Journal of African Law, Law and Development Review, and The Conversation. I have led over 20 research initiatives that have shaped policy discussions and addressed societal issues, actively engaging with vulnerable communities to advance social justice.
My contributions extend beyond research; I am a member of the AfCFTA Advisory Council, influencing policy and governance. I have served as a legal and policy consultant to several agencies and governments. I have also served on 30+ committees dedicated to ethical governance and compliance, offering expertise on critical legal matters.
Having taught undergraduate and graduate courses, including legal research methods, environmental law, and international trade & investment law, I demonstrate that education should not only impart knowledge by sharing information but also aim to cultivate a spectrum of skills. I delight in mentoring students and colleagues alike.
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I value the power of collaboration and have successfully collaborated on grants worth about $2,000,000. I have benefited from and contributed to several multidisciplinary research projects and initiatives.
I earned a Ph.D. in Law from the University of Cape Town, an LLM from the University of London, an MBA from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Business School, and an LLB from the University of Abuja. I have also honed my skills through professional development programs at institutions such as Harvard Law School, the University of Cambridge, the Partnership for African Social and Governance Research, and the Centre for AI & Digital Policy.
Committed to excellence, I have received several prestigious awards, including the Queen Elizabeth Scholar, Olu Akinkugbe Fellow on Business Law in Africa, Fellow of the Young African Leaders Initiative, International Bar Association Scholar, and the University of London Award for Academic Achievement.
In addition to my legal practice, I have a passion for event management and have successfully organized a variety of both formal and informal events, including international and local summits, conferences, workshops, weddings, and parties, some of which have drawn thousands of attendees. I also love cooking and enjoy spending time socializing.