Nigerian Abel Aboh nominated among 100 UK AI leaders

Nigerian-born data and artificial intelligence (AI) leader, Abel Aboh has been named among 100 people recognised in the Foundever AI 100 UK 2026 list for their work in putting AI to practical use across the United Kingdom.

The nomination recognises Aboh alongside 99 other people across business, government, academia and the third sector who are using AI in practical ways, whether through building tools, adopting AI, shaping policy or helping others use the technology.

Aboh is a Data Management and AI leader at the Bank of England, where his current work includes data, information and AI transformation. His LinkedIn profile also highlights his work in data management, AI, data governance and financial-sector data collection.

He has also built a public profile around data and AI education, speaking at events including Big Data London, the Data Innovation Summit and UK data governance conferences.

His Foundever AI 100 nomination comes alongside other recognitions and leadership roles. He was a finalist for British Data Leader of the Year 2021, has served as a judge for the British Data Awards, and is involved in education and board-level activities in Scotland.

The Foundever announcement said the 2026 list is focused on “impact, whether they’re building tools, adopting them well, shaping policy, or helping others do the same.” The public can vote for the People’s Choice award, with voting closing on October 5, 2026.

Foundever®, a global leader in customer experience (CX), has partnered with Digital Leaders to become the naming partner of one of the UK’s leading annual celebrations of AI leadership.

Claire Calmejane, EVP & General Manager EMEA Sales, UK&I, France & Benelux, Foundever, explained the partnership saying:

Aboh is passionate about data, technology, education, diversity and inclusion, social mobility and youth empowerment. His public work includes speaking at major data and technology events, where he discusses data management, AI, governance and emerging technology.

He is also involved in initiatives documenting the contributions of Black communities in Scotland, including the Proudly Black and Scottish digital heritage project.