Past TEDx event

TEDxNile University of Nigeria

UNMUTE

Took placeApril 7, 2026
LocationFCT, Abuja Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria
FormatUniversity
Unmute is a call to action a bold invitation to break silence, challenge limitations, and give voice to ideas that deserve to be heard. In a world where fear, doubt, societal expectations, and internal barriers often keep people quiet, Unmute creates a space for expression without hesitation. It is about speaking truths that matter, sharing perspectives that inspire change, and amplifying voices that have been overlooked or suppressed. This theme explores the power of voice not just in speaking but in standing for something. It highlights stories of courage, innovation, resilience, and transformation across diverse fields, from technology and science to art, culture, and personal growth. Unmute is not only about being heard; it is about owning your narrative, challenging the status quo, and sparking conversations that lead to impact. At its core, Unmute asks: What have you been holding back? What needs to be said? And what happens when you finally choose to speak? This is more than a theme - it is a movement to inspire individuals and communities to rise, express, and be unapologetically heard.

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

  • Adeola Tochi Salisu

    Student Changemaker

    Adeola is a pre-med student currently studying Human Anatomy in her second year at Nile University of Nigeria, driven by a deep passion to one day become a medical doctor. Beyond the sciences, she has a strong interest in exploring ideas, perspectives, and human experiences through writing and storytelling. She enjoys engaging with complex and sometimes controversial topics, often drawing inspiration from gothic literature and video essays that challenge conventional thinking. For Adeola, writing is not just a hobby-it is a tool for personal growth and a way to explore unique concepts and perspectives. Adeola is also an active member of the campus community. She serves as the Executive Secretary of the Nile Arts and Creative Club and also an active member of the TEDx and Model UN Club at Nile University of Nigeria, where she contributes to fostering creativity, dialogue, and artistic expression among students.

  • Dr. Josiah Ayoola Bukoye

    Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer, Mutual Trust MF bank

    Josiah Ayoola Bukoye is an alumnus of Nile University of Nigeria and an experienced financial services professional with over 18 years of expertise across pension funds, microfinance, retail and commercial banking, investment, digital payments, and fintech strategy. He began his career at First Alliance Pension and later joined Fortis Microfinance Bank, where he rose to become the pioneer Business Manager of the Kubwa branch, leading significant growth and turning around struggling branches. Bukoye also served as Branch Manager at FCMB, improving operational efficiency and credit portfolio management. At Mutual Trust Microfinance Bank, he progressed from Head of Business Development Group to Chief Marketing Officer and later Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer, where he leads business development and strategic initiatives.

  • Funke Akindele

    Filmaker & Actress

    Funke Akindele is widely regarded as one of the most successful actresses, producers, and directors in Nigeria. She began her professional acting career in 1997 after appearing in the United Nations Population Fund–sponsored sitcom I Need to Know, which aired from 1998 to 2002 and introduced her to a wide audience. Her most recent cinematic success, Behind The Scenes (2025), further cemented her legacy. The film broke multiple box-office records, earning over ₦2.1 billion and becoming the highest-grossing Nollywood film across Africa, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. With this achievement, Funke Akindele became the first filmmaker to produce three consecutive ₦1 billion-plus films and to top the African box office for three straight years, establishing her as Nollywood’s highest-grossing producer, director, and writer of all time.

  • Hero Daniel

    Actor, Creator

    Hero Daniels is a Nigerian TV host, Actor, and Creator. Hero has hosted numerous television and online shows, including popular game and variety programs. He has worked across major African platforms like Africa Magic, Channels TV, Ebonylife TV and Multichoice. He is known for hosting shows such as Come Play Naija, Dance Naija Dance, and guest-hosting roles on programs like Rubbing Minds on Channels TV. He also created and produced the online dating reality show True Love Games, which started during the COVID-19 pandemic and later expanded internationally with episodes filmed in Cape Town, South Africa, making him one of the first Nigerian media personalities to take such a dating format beyond Nigerian borders. As an Actor, he has featured in over 15 Nollywood films and starred as “Darlyn” on Tinsel, Africa magic longest Soap Opera. These films are across tv and online platforms like YouTube. Notable ones include Double the Love, Teenage mistake amongst others.

  • Jawahir Kamillu Babanmallam

    Spoken Word Artist

    Jawahir Kamilu Babanmallam is a multifaceted creative whose work sits at the intersection of science, storytelling, strategy, and social impact. She graduated with a first-class degree in Biotechnology, emerging as the Best Graduating Student in her department and the Second Best Graduating Student in her Faculty of Science, while juggling being the president of the Nile Creative Arts Club. She currently works as an Officer in the Office of the MD at the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), where she supports corporate and strategic functions. Jawahir is also a poet, spoken word artist, voice-over artist, social media manager and digital marketer. A two-time TEDx performer, Jawahir has performed on notable platforms including TEDx Nile, TEDx Baze, and the United Nations Women Nigeria Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence.She is also an advocate for women’s rights and against gender-based violence, using both her voice and her work to inspire thought, dignity, and change.

Organizing team