Professional History: Mohammed Sabo Keana is a Development and Child Rights Specialist and the Founder of the Advancing Children’s Rights Initiative (ACRI), formerly the Almajiri Child Rights Initiative. Through ACRI, he has designed and led child protection programs that have reached over 10,000 children across Africa and spearheaded policy advocacy with partners including UNICEF, the United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union. His work has directly contributed to the establishment of a government agency addressing Nigeria’s out-of-school crisis, which affects more than 20 million children.

A recognized leader in the field of child rights and humanitarian development, Mohammed has received numerous awards, including the UN SDG Action Award, the Ambassador of Peace Award (USA), and the NCMG Peace Award (Nigeria), reflecting his commitment to advancing equality, protection, and empowerment for children.

He is also an alumnus of LEAP Africa, the Chevening Scholarship, and the Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University, New York. His work focuses on child protection, policy advocacy, and systemic solutions that improve the lives of vulnerable children across Africa.

Academic and professional credentials: MSc in Humanitarianism, Aid & Conflict, SOAS, University of London
MA in Development Studies, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna

Auditor, Education in Emergencies & Policy Analysis, Columbia University, New York

BSc in Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria

Programs: Obama Foundation Scholar, Columbia University, New York – Selected for leadership development, global networking, and advanced training in social impact.

Chevening Scholar, UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office – Awarded for academic excellence and leadership potential to pursue international development studies.

Dr Pamela Hartigan Award for Social Innovation (Outstanding LEAPAfrica Alumni Award) , recognizing exceptional social entrepreneurship and innovation

UN SDGs Action Award, United Nations – Honored for initiatives contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

MacArthur Foundation Individual Grant – Supported impactful child rights programming and research.

Negotiation and Conflict Management Group (NCMG) Peace Builder Award – Recognized for contributions to peacebuilding and conflict-sensitive development interventions.