Dr Akinseye Aluko, Assistant Professor at Liverpool John Moores University and Oryx University in Doha, Qatar, has shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Surulere, Lagos, to academic excellence on the global stage. Born into a family that valued education, Aluko was raised by his grandmother in Surulere while his parents worked abroad. His father, a maritime captain, instilled in him a sense of discipline and purpose, even as he initially dreamed of becoming a pilot at Michigan Flight Aviation School in the United States. Though he was admitted, financial constraints led him to pursue higher education instead, marking the beginning of a remarkable academic path.
Aluko studied Public Administration at Kwara Polytechnic before earning a first degree in Economics from the University of Ado-Ekiti. He then moved to the UK for advanced studies, obtaining a Master’s in International Management, followed by an MBA in Middlesbrough and a PhD in Strategic Change Management in Sunderland. He later completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Education and taught at the University of East London and Teesside University, where he spent six years before joining his current institutions in Qatar. His research focuses on strategic change in Nigeria’s maritime crude oil transportation sector, contributing valuable insights to economic policy discussions both locally and internationally.
Growing up in Mushin and Surulere shaped Aluko’s worldview and ambition. He often reflects on how childhood experiences, including challenges and triumphs, fueled his drive to succeed. “Mushin to the world” became a mantra among his peers, who supported each other through education and career development. Many of them have since become CEOs and business leaders in Nigeria, proving that strong values and mentorship can lead to greatness. Aluko emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and giving back to society, which is why he once ran a NGO in the UK that donated books to schools and mentored children.
Despite his success abroad, Aluko remains deeply connected to his Nigerian roots. He proudly wears traditional Yoruba attire and a cap to conferences and interviews, drawing inspiration from Professor Wole Soyinka’s cultural pride. He believes promoting Africanism is essential for identity and global respect. Even in Qatar, his cultural expression is appreciated by students and colleagues. When questioned about his clothing, he explains his Nigerian heritage with confidence: “I’m first a Nigerian before becoming British.”
Aluko attributes his achievements to determination, setting five-year goals, and networking with like-minded individuals. He has published extensively and contributed to economic research across continents. However, he expresses disappointment that Nigerian universities often overlook opportunities for diaspora experts to contribute pro bono. In contrast, Qatar actively seeks his expertise, highlighting a stark difference in institutional openness. He urges Nigerians to embrace their unique gifts and sell their values globally, emphasizing that “every Nigerian has one special gift that the world needs.”
He also calls for better support for researchers in Nigeria, stressing that real research requires funding, fieldwork, and collaboration—not just office-based writing. As a former Deputy Executive Director in Oil and Gas Management at the University of East London, he conducted field research in Greece and the Netherlands, underscoring the need for practical, hands-on investigation. To combat brain drain, Aluko advocates for improved welfare, job satisfaction, and leadership accountability in Nigerian institutions. He believes that when professionals are valued and treated well, they will stay and contribute.
Looking ahead, Aluko plans to return to Nigeria soon, visiting two or three times a year to prepare for his eventual homecoming. He encourages fellow Nigerians in the diaspora to do the same, ensuring Africa remains a viable destination for talent. With conviction, culture, and commitment, Dr Aluko stands as a testament to what Nigerian excellence can achieve—and what it can offer the world if given the right environment.
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