Mfreke Anakan Ayan-Asigbe is a distinguished Public Health Specialist with over a decade of experience dedicated to enhancing community wellness and addressing critical health issues. She is the CEO of Cypress Global Health and the founder of Women Riding on Waves Initiative, reflecting her commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals, families, organizations, and communities. Mfreke’s academic journey is marked by excellence. She earned a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Calabar, where she was recognized as the best graduating student and received the Award of Excellent Leadership from the Student Union Government.
Her pursuit of knowledge led her to participate in international fellowships, including the Emerging Political Leadership Fellowship and the African Civic Engagement Academy at the University of Georgia, underscoring her dedication to continuous learning and leadership development. In her professional career, Mfreke has led numerous initiatives aimed at combating gender-based violence and promoting health education. Leading the implementation of the FCDO-funded Conflict Stability and Security-Resourcing Change project with the Coalition for the Promotion of Gender Justice, she managed initiatives that enhance the capacity of women’s rights organizations (WROs) to advance gender equality, empower women, prevent gender-based violence (GBV), and promote gender-transformative peacebuilding through local conflict resolution, gender budgeting, and policy reforms in conflict-affected communities. As the Research and Program Manager for Gender and Development Action, she spearheaded the Reducing Gender-Based Violence Project using Social Behaviour Change Communication and Adaptive Leadership in the eighteen Local Government Areas of Cross River State and the South-South region in Nigeria. This role involved extensive data collection, analysis, and engagement with key stakeholders, including government officials and media partners, to foster social change and reduce violence.
Through Cypress Global Health, Mfreke has demonstrated her passion for health and wellness by providing coaching and education on stress management, trauma healing and recovery, sexual and reproductive health, and counseling for survivors of gender-based violence. Her efforts have extended to empowering women and girls living with disabilities, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. Her recent research project, “Empowering Health: Integrated Approaches to Sexual and Reproductive Health, Substance Abuse Prevention, and Response in Cross River State,” addressed critical issues related to adolescents’ health, further showcasing her commitment to community well-being.
Mfreke’s leadership extends beyond health initiatives. She serves as the Pioneer State Coordinator for Women Situation Room Nigeria, Secretary for the Young Women in Politics Forum, Cross River State Chapter, and the Deputy Coordinator for the Women’s Leadership Institute Network in the same region. Her involvement in these organizations highlights her dedication to fostering women’s participation in leadership and political processes. Recognized for her expertise and leadership, Mfreke was selected as a Fellow in the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship, where she expanded her knowledge in visionary leadership, strategic alliances, and campaign planning. This fellowship enhanced her visibility and allowed her to collaborate with like-minded professionals on impactful projects. She is currently a Research for Gender Equity Fellow of Women in Global Health for the EmpowerHER Health Fellowship Program. Mfreke is listed among the 100 Nigerians Leading Change Makers for 2025, recognized for her contributions to transforming the world and making it a better place, particularly through her creative approach to solving social problems.
In summary, Mfreke Anakan Ayan-Asigbe stands as a preeminent consultant, academic, and thought leader in public health. Her robust academic foundation, illustrious career, and portfolio of successful projects make her an ideal collaborator for advancing research, programs, and projects aimed at improving
public health and empowering communities.