Dr. Victor Bandele Oladokun is a prominent British-Nigerian journalist, broadcaster, and communications strategist whose career spans several continents and industries. Born in 1958, in London, to an Irish mother and a Nigerian father (from Ondo State), Oladokun’s multicultural background has significantly influenced his professional journey and his commitment to enhancing Africa’s narrative on the global stage.

Early Life and Education

Growing up in England, Dr. Oladokun attended various schools, including a Canadian Jesuit-run Catholic high school in Nigeria. He later pursued higher education at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), earning a degree in History and Political Science. His passion for media blossomed during this time, leading him to envision a future filled with innovative television programming.

Dr. Oladokun furthered his education in the United States, obtaining a Master of Arts in Communication degree from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He also earned a doctorate in Strategic Leadership from the same institution, which equipped him with the skills to navigate complex communication landscapes.

Career Highlights

Dr. Oladokun’s career began at Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where he held several management positions before transitioning to public relations with the A.G. Leventis Group in Lagos. His move to the United States marked a significant turning point as he joined the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) in Virginia Beach. For about two decades, he became a key figure at CBN, serving as a producer and host for internationally acclaimed programmes such as CBN World News and Turning Point. His work at CBN allowed him to interview figures like Muhammad Ali, Thabo Mbeki, and Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled journalist.

In 2017 Dr. Oladokun was appointed Director of Communications and External Relations at the African Development Bank (AfDB). He transformed the bank’s communication strategy during his tenure, significantly enhancing its regional and global profile. He was pivotal in raising awareness about Africa’s development challenges and opportunities while serving as Senior Advisor to the bank’s president on Communication and Stakeholder Engagement until his retirement in 2020.

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