Funmi Ayeni is an experienced public administrator with a background in both the public and private sector. Since 2012, she has served as the pioneer Executive Director of the Public Interest Law Partnership (PILP) in Nigeria, initially running

the project from the Lagos State Attorney General’s office. The scheme was later incorporated as a non-profit organisation in 2015. Through her work, she has contributed to the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing access to justice and developing the culture of pro bono in the Sub-Saharan African region.

Under her leadership, the PILP operates a clearinghouse and organises several pro bono projects including the Pro Bono week. The organisation has forged strategic local and international partnerships with key stakeholders towards sustaining the unique partnership model. Their pro bono services have included assisting low income individuals, communities and NGOs in both criminal and civil matters. The organisation also engages in community economic development by providing legal assistance to small-scale businesses owned by underrepresented persons.

Prior to this position, she was an associate at Banwo & Ighodalo. She obtained her LL.B from the University of Warwick and her LL.M. focusing on Public Law and Policy from the University of California, Berkeley. She also holds a certificate in Public Interest and Social Justice from the latter.