In a move that has sent ripples through Nigeria’s investment community, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has appointed Dr Sa’id Alkali Kori as his Chief Investment Adviser and Pioneer Chairman of the Borno State Investment Promotion Agency Governing Board, bringing on board one of the country’s most accomplished infrastructure finance experts at a critical juncture in the state’s reconstruction journey. The appointment, formalised following the enactment of the Borno State Investment Promotion Agency (Amendment No. 1) Law, 2026, places Dr Kori at the strategic intersection of policy and capital, tasking him with translating the state’s economic ambitions into bankable realities. Dr Sa’id Alkali Kori’s trajectory reads like a carefully constructed blueprint for the role he now assumes, born and educated across three continents, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the Federal University of Technology, Yola, before proceeding to the United Kingdom where he obtained a Master’s degree in Digital Construction from the University of Salford and later a Doctorate in Built Environment with specialisation in Innovation Economics from the prestigious University of Liverpool. This unique academic foundation, blending technical architectural expertise with high-level economic analysis, has proven instrumental in his ability to conceive, structure, and execute complex infrastructure projects that bridge the gap between physical development and financial viability. As Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of Thinklab Group Limited, Dr Kori has overseen the structuring of over $200 million in infrastructure financing across critical sectors including housing, healthcare, and road networks, with the firm establishing itself as a major player in development finance across Nigeria and other African markets. Before founding Thinklab, he served as General Manager of Projects at Family Homes Funds Limited, a federal government initiative focused on affordable housing delivery, where he negotiated over $100 million in multilateral financing and delivered more than 15,000 housing units through innovative public-private partnership models deployed across the nation. This experience in marrying social impact with commercial sustainability is directly relevant to Borno’s pressing need for mass housing reconstruction. Beyond his corporate roles, Dr Kori has steadily built a reputation as a regional development strategist, currently serving as Honorary Special Adviser on International Relations and Investment to the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, and as Technical Adviser to the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, a multilateral platform comprising governors from Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger addressing regional stability and development challenges. His appointment to these roles was described by the Yobe State Government as recognition of his past records of performance, dedication, and personal commitment to the development of the state, with his vast international network and proven leadership expected to significantly enhance engagement with multilateral partners and accelerate progress across the Lake Chad Basin. In August 2025, Governor Buni further appointed Dr Kori as Chairman of the Nigeria Food Corporation, a strategic holding company overseeing six major agro-industrial subsidiaries including Nguru Oil Mills Limited, Yobe Flour and Feeds Mills Company Limited, Wheat Flour Global Mills Company Limited, Yobe State Fertiliser Blending Company, and Damaturu Modern Abattoir, placing him at the helm of efforts to transform the region’s agricultural value chain, a sector of immense importance to Borno’s economic future. Dr Kori’s professional footprint spans 34 countries across multiple continents, providing him with exposure to diverse development models, financing mechanisms, and investment frameworks, and he has lectured at the University of Liverpool and Yobe State University, bringing academic rigour to his practical experience, while holding board positions with multinational corporations including BIM Africa and Fulus Capital. Yet despite this global profile, those who know him emphasise his deep commitment to the Northeast region, with his investments in the Maiduguri Economic City, the Teachers Village project, and the Bakassi GRA rehabilitation demonstrating a personal stake in Borno’s prosperity that extends beyond any official appointment. The timing of Dr Kori’s appointment is significant, as Borno State stands at a crossroads with the relative stability achieved under Governor Zulum’s administration creating an opportunity to pivot from humanitarian relief to sustainable economic development, with the challenge lying in attracting the private capital required to finance this transition.Under the new law, Dr Kori will chair a governing board that includes representatives from ten key ministries and agencies including Commerce, Trade and Industries, Borno State Geographic Information Service, Works, Housing and Energy, Justice, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Livestock, Planning, Finance, and Local Government and Emirate Affairs, each represented by an official not below the rank of director serving as an ex-officio member. The board also includes three representatives from the state’s three senatorial zones with one seat reserved for a woman, and two representatives from the organised private sector, while the Director-General of BOIPA will serve as secretary to the board. Dr Kori’s appointment has been welcomed across the political and business spectrum, with stakeholders expressing confidence that his combination of technical expertise, regional knowledge, and international networks positions him to make a meaningful impact, though the challenges are undeniable with infrastructure deficits remaining vast, investor confidence requiring sustained nurturing, and the security environment, while improved, remaining fragile. Those who have worked with him point to his methodical approach, his fluency in the language of investors, and his demonstrated ability to move projects from conception to completion as reasons for optimism, with his experience delivering over 15,000 housing units nationally suggesting he understands that in development, execution matters as much as strategy. For the people of Borno, the promise is straightforward: a chief investment adviser who understands that the ultimate measure of success is not the value of memoranda signed, but the jobs created for youth, the businesses empowered for women, and the prosperity that reaches every community, and for the investment community, the message is equally clear: Borno is open for business, and it has placed one of its most accomplished sons at the controls of its investment engine. https://punchng.com/zulum-appoints-infrastructure-expert-to-lead-borno-investment-agency https://www.msn.com/en-xl/africa/nigeria/zulum-names-said-kori-chief-investment-adviser-hails-appointment-as-economic-game-changer-for-borno/ar-AA1XMcPc https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/03/06/zulum-brings-in-outsider-as-chief-investment-adviser-can-he-unlock-borno https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/03/06/zulum-brings-in-outsider-as-chief-investment-adviser-can-he-unlock-borno

In a remarkable show of support for education and institutional development, Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori has donated five million naira through the Thinklab Charity Foundation towards the renovation of the Department of Architecture at Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri. The contribution is earmarked for essential upgrades to the department’s facilities, aimed at improving the overall academic environment for both students and staff. This generous act reflects Dr. Kori’s enduring dedication to advancing education and fostering community growth. Reacting to the donation, Mr. Sadiq Mohammed Mala, Head of the Architecture Department at Ramat Polytechnic, conveyed sincere appreciation on behalf of the institution, describing the intervention as both timely and impactful. The Thinklab Charity Foundation praised Dr. Kori for his continued philanthropic efforts, emphasizing the significance of such contributions in strengthening public education. “May Allah reward his efforts and bless the institution with continued growth and success,” stated Jibril Mohammed, Director of Operations at the Foundation.

In a transformative move to reshape Yobe State’s agro-industrial landscape, Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori has been appointed by the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. (Dr) Mai Mala Buni CON, as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Nigerian Food Corporation (NFC). This appointment marks a critical milestone in Dr. Kori’s career as a public sector leader, reformer, and policy strategist—now tasked with steering one of the most ambitious agro-economic restructurings in the state’s history. Leading a Vision for Agricultural Reform Under Dr. Kori’s leadership, the NFC is undergoing a strategic overhaul that will consolidate six major agro-industrial assets under a single holding structure. This move is designed to streamline operations, foster cross-sector synergy, and drive sustained growth and innovation across the state’s agro-food value chain. “This restructuring is not just administrative—it is a mission to bring real impact to the people of Yobe,” Dr. Kori stated. “We are committed to building a future where agriculture is the backbone of economic development and food security.” A Unified Board, a Singular Vision As Chairman, Dr. Kori now leads a newly appointed board composed of seasoned professionals and institutional representatives, each bringing vital expertise to the table. Board Leadership: Non-Executive Members: Oversight of Six Strategic Agro-Industrial Assets The new NFC Board under Dr. Kori’s leadership will assume unified governance over six key subsidiaries: Each of these entities will now operate under a streamlined governance model designed to ensure efficiency, transparency, and strategic alignment with Yobe’s economic development goals. Driving a New Era of Food Security and Innovation As Chairman, Dr. Kori has requested all board members to submit their professional profiles and vision statements, initiating a collaborative roadmap for governance, reform, and delivery. This effort aligns with the broader Buni administration’s commitment to positioning Yobe State as a national leader in agriculture and food processing. Dr. Kori’s stewardship is expected to be instrumental in unlocking new investment opportunities, improving food systems, and generating economic value for communities across the state. “With clear direction, committed leadership, and a unified board, I believe we are entering a new chapter for Yobe State’s agro-industrial future,” said Dr. Kori.

Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori has been recognized as one of the 50 Heroes of Humanitarian and Service, in commemoration of the United Nations World Humanitarian Day. The award, presented by the Hope Ambassadors for Peace in Africa Initiative, celebrates individuals making impactful contributions to humanity. Dr. Kori, a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and advocate for youth empowerment, was represented at the award ceremony by Mrs. Veronica Braimoh, Executive Director of Corporate and Shared Services at Thinklab Group. In her acceptance speech on his behalf, Mrs. Braimoh highlighted Dr. Kori’s unwavering commitment to uplifting the less privileged through education, mentorship, and community development. Notable among his initiatives is Thinkpreneur, which is aimed at supporting and mentoring numerous young entrepreneurs across Nigeria. He has also provided scholarships, JAMB sponsorships, and other educational support to underserved students. “For Dr. Kori, this award is not just an honor, but a renewed call to continue making a difference and to inspire others to lead with compassion,” Mrs. Braimoh said. The recognition reaffirms Dr. Kori’s enduring belief that true leadership lies in service to others.

The Nigerian Institute of Architects NIA, Abuja Chapter has successfully held its 41st General Assembly Conference and Exhibition at the Exclusive Serene Hotel and Suites Banquet Hall, drawing architects, developers, and industry stakeholders from across the country. This year’s event, themed “Housing Delivery and Real Estate Development in Nigeria: The Architect’s Role and a Developer’s Perspective,” featured a keynote address by renowned speaker Matthew Ashimolowo, alongside a high-level panel discussion that explored innovative approaches to Nigeria’s housing sector. Although unavoidably absent due to international commitments, Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, a leading real estate expert and developer, was represented by Fauziya Nasir, Group Head of Public Relations at Thinklab Group Limited. In a goodwill message delivered on his behalf, Dr. Kori expressed deep appreciation to the NIA Abuja Chapter for the invitation and emphasized the critical role of architects in shaping Nigeria’s built environment. “Architects are not only designers of spaces but visionaries who shape the future of our built environment,” the message stated. Dr. Kori praised the Institute’s dedication to professional excellence and expressed optimism that the conversations from the conference would lead to actionable solutions for housing delivery in Nigeria. The event highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between architects and developers to address the nation’s housing challenges and promote sustainable urban development.

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, Group Chief Executive Officer of Thinklab Group, has been invited to serve as one of the distinguished panelists at the 41st General Assembly Conference and Exhibition of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Abuja Chapter. The event is scheduled to hold as follows: Date: Friday, 9th August 2025. Time: 9:00 AM Venue: Banquet Hall, Exclusive serene Hotel and suites Plot 31 Reuben Okoya Crescent, Wuye, Abuja. Theme: “Housing Delivery and Real Estate in Nigeria: The Architect’s Role and a Developer’s Perspective” Dr. Kori will be joining other esteemed experts to explore critical insights on housing development in Nigeria, addressing the synergy between architecture and real estate investment from both professional and developer standpoints. This engagement reflects his continued commitment to advancing sustainable development and fostering cross-sector collaboration within Nigeria’s built environment.

In acknowledging his unwavering Commitment to youth empowerment and development, The international organisation of UN Volunteers Honors Dr. Sa’id with peace Medal Award.

The Postgraduate Association of Procurement Management Students has presented an Award of Outstanding Service to Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, in recognition of his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to human capital development. Describing him as an “Icon of Hope and Human Capital Development,” the association praised Dr. Kori’s visionary leadership, impressive performance, and consistent dedication to excellence.

Dr. Sa’id Kori, Chairman of Thinklab Group, alongside members of the National Mosque Management and Board, participated in the official signing ceremony of a strategic partnership for the development of the Abuja Marina Towers.  The event, held in Abuja, marks a significant step toward transforming the city’s skyline and enhancing national infrastructure through collaborative investment and innovation.

The Abuja Real Estate Fireside Chat, through its Head of Partnerships, Engineer Grant Johnson, and the Convener, Engineer Mark Onyekachi, has honoured and felicitated with the Group Chief Executive Officer of ThinkLab, Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, on the occasion of his birthday. They applauded Dr. Kori’s outstanding contributions to the real estate sector, youth empowerment, and philanthropy, describing him as a role model who has set admirable examples for aspiring youths in the housing industry. In his response, Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the warm visit and kind gestures. He encouraged them to continue striving for excellence, noting that “there is always a first time and a first step for everything.” He further assured them of his willingness to partner with them in their next event in whatever way necessary to ensure its success.