growing up in nigeria, maina said he was inspired by his father's science book to become a scientist. however, there was a high level of misconceptions about science and lack of visible science role models in his community, which hinders many young people from developing interest in science disciplines. as a result maina founded the outreach program for trend in africa, an organisation that aims to improve scientific development in sub-saharan africa, for example by organising workshops on open hardware and neuroscience, and science fairs for students and teachers. he also started the science communication hub in nigeria, , a platform that aims to connect scientists from nigeria and increase the visibility of nigerian and african scientists. he has published about neuroscience research in nigeria as part of his ongoing work to enhance neuroscience research in africa.