Our Team

Gabriel Sunday Ayayia hails from Obudu, the northern part of Cross River State, Nigeria, but grew up in Ibadan, in the western part of the country. He is an interdisciplinary researcher, author, and the visionary behind the Pilot Agrivoltaic Project in Nigeria. As the Co-Investigator and Project Manager, he is dedicated to integrating agriculture and renewable energy to address critical challenges intersecting food, energy, and water security, sustainability, and rural development.

Gabriel holds an Associate Degree in Agricultural Engineering (Distinction), a BA in Philosophy (Imo State University, Owerri), an MA in Philosophy (University of Ibadan), and an MSc in Applied Ethics (Oregon State University, USA). He is at the edge of completing his third master’s degree in Environmental Science at Oregon State University and will collaborate with Dr. Chad Higgins and Dr. David Bernell for doctoral research focusing on integrating agrivoltaic technology into Nigeria’s agricultural systems and exploring its replicability in similar regions. This work will aim to bridge theory and practice, ensuring innovations align with social and environmental equity while enhancing agricultural productivity.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Gabriel employs mixed methods to investigate Ubuntu’s principles of community and compassion in food pantry operations in Benton County, Oregon, USA. He has also produced a documentary exploring okra as a symbol of culinary and cultural connection beyond Africa. As a graduate of Oregon State University’s Accelerator Program, he possesses the skills to conceptualize ideas and drive them through robust business valuation models.

Gabriel is a certified Scrum Master and Project Manager. Beyond academia, he serves as the CEO of Primemoor Global Publishers and is an author of works focusing on self-development and environmental sustainability. His leadership extends to founding the LIFEWS Foundation and originating the Lichipu Philosophy—an ethos emphasizing collective action and community-driven solutions.

A passionate advocate for climate-smart agriculture, Gabriel has spearheaded impactful initiatives, including assessing Ubuntu principles in food pantry operations and developing adaptive farming strategies for Sub-Saharan Africa. Gabriel has presented some of his research papers both locally and internationally, in countries such as Canada, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge and sharing innovative solutions to global challenges.

Through his interdisciplinary expertise, visionary leadership, and commitment to sustainable development, Gabriel is driving transformative change at the nexus of food, energy, and sustainability, paving the way for a resilient and equitable future.