Illia Djadi

Illia works for Open Doors as Senior Analyst for Freedom of Religion and Belief in Sub-Saharan Africa.

He is a published writer, radio journalist and researcher. He has been covering news and current affairs in Africa for more than 2 decades. Before joining Open Doors, he worked for various international organisations including BBC World Service. 

In recent years, Illia has developed into a widely respected Africa Analyst, making regular appearances in international media including BBC, Deutsche Welle, The Washington Post, Christianity Today, La Tribune de Genève, TV5 Monde. His insightful analyses focus on critical topics such as security, human rights, and politics in Africa. 

Illia has actively participated in prestigious assemblies such as the World Economic Forum, the Human Rights Council and the European Parliament. In December 2022, Illia had the honour of meeting His Majesty King Charles III to discuss the pressing humanitarian challenges facing the Sahel region. 

He graduated from the University of Niamey (Niger) and holds a master’s degree from Portsmouth University (UK), focusing on the history and politics of Francophone Africa, alongside multiple certifications in journalism and human rights.

Originally from Niger Republic, Illia now resides in London with his wife and two children.