CODE appoints Kunle Babs as global communications consultant

Connected Development (CODE), a leading civil society organisation, has named Kunle Babs its chief global communications and advocacy consultant.

Babs is a seasoned video journalist and strategic communications expert with nearly 15 years of international experience.

He has worked with major global media outlets such as Agence France-Presse (AFP), China Global Television Network (CGTN), France 24, Channel News Asia (CNA), CBC, DD India, and Deutsche Welle (DW).

In his new role, Babs will oversee CODE’s global communications strategy, lead media relations, and drive advocacy campaigns across Africa and beyond.

Hamzat Lawal, chief executive of CODE, described the appointment as a strategic step in scaling the organisation’s impact.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kunle to the team,” Lawal said.

“His expertise in global communications and storytelling will play a vital role in scaling our impact.”

Babs is not new to CODE.

He previously trained the organisation’s staff on media engagement and storytelling during a retreat.

He also produced advocacy documentaries, including DW’s Fighting Eco-Corruption in Nigeria, which spotlighted CODE’s Follow The Money healthcare campaign.

He was part of CODE’s international observer team during the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Lawal praised Babs’ track record.

“I have known and worked closely with Kunle for nearly a decade,” he said.

“His passion, commitment, and exceptional storytelling skills continue to inspire me.

“Beyond his technical skills, Kunle understands the heart of our mission – giving voice to the marginalised. That makes all the difference.”

Reacting to the appointment, Babs expressed his excitement.

“I am honoured to join CODE and excited to contribute to its mission of empowering marginalised communities through advocacy and innovation,” he said.

“I look forward to working alongside the talented team at CODE to strengthen the organisation’s impact and expand its influence globally.”

Babs holds a B.A. in English, a postgraduate diploma in Filmmaking and Television Production, and is currently pursuing an MBA in Media Leadership at the University of Cumbria, UK.

This is an AI-assisted report