Meet the people providing strategic direction and operational leadership at SSHAI.
Learn more about our founder, executives, coordinators, and overall SSHAI leadership team working together to advance our mission and create lasting health impact.
Dr. Joela Oyiwodu Ikwulono is a Nigerian medical doctor, health systems professional, and founder of SSHAI (Sickle Support & Health Access Initiative). Her work focuses on strengthening access to healthcare through community health programs, health systems strengthening, research, strategic partnerships, and evidence-informed implementation.
She established SSHAI in 2026 with a vision of improving healthcare access for people living with sickle cell disease and underserved communities across Nigeria. Under her leadership, the organization combines clinical outreach, health education, advocacy, research, and collaboration to deliver sustainable, community-driven impact.
Her interests include health systems strengthening, implementation research, health policy, healthcare management, and community-based public health interventions.
Joela believes sustainable healthcare begins with strong communities, evidence-based action, and partnerships that put people first.
Joshua Momoh Shuaibu - Project Coordinator: Logistics, Operations & Technical Support
Dr. Victory Uwagwu Odufa - Project Coordinator: Program Strategy, Monitoring & Quality Assurance
Dr. Joela Ikwulono Oyiwodu—Founder & Program Lead, Head of Research and Development
Catherina Adaji Princess—Project Coordinator: Field Supervision, HR & Professional Development
Obedina Ikwulono Ene - Project Coordinator: Media and Communications
Joshua Momoh Shuaibu - Project Coordinator: Logistics, Operations & Technical Support
Dr Shagbaor Jeremiah Ushahemba – Research Operations Coordinator
Dr Joela Ikwulono Oyiwodu – Founder & Program Director, Head of Research and Development
Dr Victory Uwagwu Odufa – Project Coordinator: Program Strategy, Monitoring & Quality Assurance
Nanbam Dafut Sarah - Volunteer Staff Welfare & Engagement Coordinator
Catherina Adaji Princess – Project Coordinator: Field Supervision and HR Support
Obedina Ikwulono Ene - Project Coordinator: Media and Communications
Andrew Beekombo Sesugh - Head of Partnerships & External Relations
Sandra Kajoh Mwuese - Health Education & Community Engagement Coordinator (N/A)
