Olamiposi Jinadu (PGR/PGT Centre Coordinator)
Olamiposi (Ola)Jinadu is a recipient of the University of Aberdeen School of Law’s PhD Merit Scholarship and previously completed an LLM in International Commercial Law (with Professional Skills) from the same institution. Her research focuses on investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) for renewable energy investment within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) framework and draws comparative perspectives from the European Union (EU) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Ola’s research explores regional cooperation within the ECOWAS bloc, particularly its Treaty objective of enhancing the socio-economic wellbeing of ECOWAS Member States citizens through the harmonisation of legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks. Her work is situated within the renewable energy sector where policy alignment plays a crucial role in driving sustainable development.
The thesis examines the extent to which ECOWAS framework provides a comprehensive dispute settlement mechanism for renewable energy investment and analyses their implication in fostering sustainable investment within the region. It explores how predictable frameworks can support investor confidence while aligning with broader developmental objectives.
To provide comparative perspectives, her project evaluates the EU and ASEAN, both regional economic blocs with distinct, yet compelling approaches to investment and regulatory governance, and institutional design. Against the backdrop of increasing global criticism of ISDS mechanisms and ongoing efforts at strengthening their legitimacy through procedural reforms, her study identifies key lessons for ECOWAS reform pathways.
Ola was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2004 and is qualified as both a solicitor and barrister. She practised at partner level before commencing advanced research, bringing significant professional experience to her scholarly work. She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Scottish Branch) and volunteers at the Aberdeen Citizens Advice Bureau.
