The African Food Research Network (AfREN) is pleased to welcome Isiaq Toyeeb Abolaji as a Food Summit Coordinator Intern, where he will contribute to coordinating AfREN’s Annual Summit and strengthening collaborative engagement within the food research community.
Isiaq is a Food Scientist, researcher, and academic professional with strong expertise in food biotechnology, quality assurance, and research-driven innovation. He holds a Bachelor of Technology in Food Science from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, and is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST).
His research interests include microbial fermentation, functional foods, nutraceutical development, and food safety systems, areas that are critical to advancing food innovation and nutrition security in Africa.
Isiaq currently serves as an Assistant Lecturer at Amadu Sanda Ahmadu College of Education, Minna, where he teaches biology-related courses, mentors students, and supports laboratory-based learning.
Previously, he worked as a Research Assistant at the LAUTECH Centre of Research, Innovation and Development, contributing to multidisciplinary research projects in agricultural and aquacultural biotechnology. He also gained industry experience as a Quality Control Intern, where he supported the implementation of HACCP-based food safety systems.
A certified Project Manager, Isiaq combines strong technical research competence with leadership and project execution skills. He is actively involved in community development through Junior Chamber International Nigeria (JCI Nigeria), where he has served in leadership roles including Vice President and Director of Media, Publicity, and Publication. His dedication to youth leadership and community service has earned him several awards recognizing his resourcefulness and impact.
Beyond academia, Isiaq is also a volunteer, brand designer, and public relations professional, supporting organizations with communication strategy, branding, and stakeholder engagement.
At AfREN, he will support summit coordination, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge exchange, helping strengthen collaborative platforms that advance research, innovation, and sustainable food systems across Africa.
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