…Space physicist calls for increased investment in research infrastructure, human capital devt, local innovation to boost Nigeria’s space science capacity, global competitiveness

Professor of Space Physics, Sola Fayose, has appealed for increased investment in space research to promote the development of locally made space technologies and applications, saying it would position Nigeria as a global player in the production of space products and services, rather than merely a consumer.

He stated that space research could drive technological advancement, create job opportunities, improve space literacy, aid military or security-related activities, foster international collaboration, and support medical and biological research. According to him, it could also open new career paths for young people, ultimately contributing to economic development and an improved standard of living.

Prof. Fayose revealed these findings on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, while delivering the 62nd inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State. The lecture was titled “Earth and Extraterrestrial Intelligence: Nexus for Human Existence and Comfort”.

While explaining the link between human existence and extraterrestrial intelligence, he described the latter as anything existing or originating beyond Earth, including life forms, cosmic signals, space environments, the upper atmosphere, and other galaxies in the universe. He noted that space physics is a field that examines the relationship between Earth and the wider universe in order to understand its influence on human existence and comfort within the cosmos.

Stressing the relevance of studies on space-related matters, the space physicist cited the Sun as the primary source of electromagnetic energy powering the atmosphere and oceanic circulation. He explained that the Sun emits electromagnetic radiation, with its visible light converted by plants into food through photosynthesis, making the food chain dependent on plants.

A major supporter of the life cycle, he further noted that the Sun furnishes, directly or indirectly, all the energy supporting life on Earth, except for that derived from deep-sea hydrothermal vents. He explained that most foods and fuels are ultimately derived from plants, which use the energy of sunlight to sustain life on Earth.

Prof. Fayose added that the scientific study of the space environment has facilitated the invention of space-based technologies such as GSM technology, credit and ATM transactions, online and mobile banking, GNSS navigation, internet services, satellite television and cable, air, sea and land transportation, and modern military systems. All of these have significantly improved human existence and comfort on Earth and advanced human understanding of the Earth-space system.

He noted that these technologies also support sustainable development in agriculture, health, education, transportation, and digital communication. According to him, this accentuates the critical need for more intensive space research to further enhance socio-economic development and improve the quality of human life.

Hence, the don recommended that the government adequately fund existing space centres, such as Centres for Space Research and Applications, to empower them to contribute to the national development needs of space science and technology. He also called for the establishment of human capital development programmes to attract young students into a postgraduate channel that serves the needs of an indigenous space sector and other high-end skills demands in the evolving socio-economic landscape.

“The acquisition of state-of-the-art facilities to support advanced deep-space teaching and research, and improving downstream applications for enhanced development, must be encouraged,” he said. “The provision of electricity is a necessity for meaningful research. The government should treat this with all the seriousness it deserves. Adequate power supply should be provided in academic and research institutions to promote research.”

Prof. Fayose also urged the government to place more priority on patronising locally developed research equipment, while making the procurement of such equipment tax-free. He added that appropriate legislation must be formulated to mandate industries to support the scientific research of universities in their operational areas.

He proposed a collaboration between government agencies such as the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and universities or research institutes to address the lack of data by making data available for academic and research purposes.

Furthermore, the inaugural lecturer advocated for the establishment of Space Physics as an undergraduate course in universities across the country, suggesting that the course should be taught in indigenous languages.

“As it has been done in some advanced countries such as China, Japan, Singapore, and Germany, teaching science in students’ mother tongue can enhance the learning of much-dreaded science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, and Mathematics,” he explained.

He concluded by encouraging international collaboration among researchers from diverse backgrounds and countries to amass resources, expertise, and perspectives in order to solve some of the universe’s most “pressing mysteries”. He remarked that this collaboration can also foster global citizenship and cooperation, thereby demonstrating the power of science to transcend borders.

Earlier, while presenting the inaugural lecturer, the Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the Occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described the academic gathering as a cherished tradition that connects rigorous research with the public celebration of new knowledge.

 Prof. Ige, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, congratulated the inaugural lecturer on attaining a major milestone in his academic career as a space physics scholar and a mentor to younger generations.

The Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has congratulated Chief Reuben Fasoranti, former Pro-Chancellor of the university, on his 100th birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday by Victor A. Akinpelumi, Deputy Registrar and Head of Information, Protocol and Public Relations / Radio AAUA 90.3FM, Prof. Ige described the centenarian as an extraordinary leader whose life exemplifies integrity, selflessness and commitment to the Yoruba people and Nigeria.

Prof. Ige recalled Chief Fasoranti’s tenure as AAUA’s second Pro-Chancellor from November 2001 to September 2003. He said the elder statesman’s legacy of excellence and prudent leadership remains a lasting imprint on the university.

“Baba Fasoranti is a leader of leaders, a community pillar, political sage, and bridge builder. He prioritises the welfare of others above personal gain,” Prof. Ige stated.

The VC also praised Chief Fasoranti’s devotion to the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, describing him as a living embodiment of the Yoruba ideals of Omoluabi, honour, humility and courage.

“At 100, he remains a beacon for justice, true federalism, and democratic governance. His fearless voice during military rule and contributions to education in Ondo State and Nigeria continue to inspire,” Prof. Ige added.

He prayed for continued strength, good health, and divine wisdom for the centenarian, saying the nation would continue to benefit from his counsel.

“On behalf of AAUA management, staff, and students, I wish Papa a happy 100th birthday. We celebrate his life of sacrifice and pursuit of a better society,” he concluded.

• Lecture holds May 12 at university multipurpose hall

Prof.  Sola Rufus Fayose, a respected scholar of space physics in the Department of Physics and Electronics at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, is set to deliver the institution’s 62nd inaugural lecture on Tuesday, May  12, 2026.

Entitled “Earth and Extraterrestrial Intelligence: Nexus for Human Existence and Comfort”, the lecture promises to illuminate how human knowledge of Earth and life beyond the planet can improve human life, comfort, and continued existence. The lecture is scheduled to take place at the University Multipurpose Hall at 2:00 pm, and guests are expected to be seated by 1:30 pm.

In a statement issued by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and Chairman of Ceremonies, Prof. Adebisi Daramola, it was disclosed that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will serve as the Chairman of the event.

Prof.  Fayose began his academic journey in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Physics, which he earned from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He then obtained his Master of Technology in Physics (Electronic Measurements and Instrumentation) in 2004 from the Federal University of Technology, Akure. In 2011, he was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Space Physics from the same institution.

He joined the staff of Adekunle Ajasin University in 1997 as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Physics and Electronics and has steadily advanced through the academic ranks to earn the position of Professor in 2021.

Through his service to the university, Prof. Fayose has demonstrated administrative competence in several capacities. These have included serving as Acting Head of the Department of Physics and Electronics, Coordinator of the departmental Student Industrial Work and Experience Scheme (SIWES), Coordinator of departmental Postgraduate Studies, Chairman of the Faculty of Science Welfare Committee, Coordinator and Acting Director of the Centre for Space, Energy and Environmental Research (CSEER), AAUA, and Acting Director of the Industrial Training Unit (ITU).

He was the Chairperson, ASUU-AAUA 2015-2018; Vice Chairperson, ASUU-AAUA 2010-2015 and Financial Secretary, ASUU-AAUA 2006-2010.  

A refined academic, the space physicist has co-authored and made scholarly contributions to four books and has 29 journal articles published under his name. He has also attended and presented papers at 39 conferences both in Nigeria and in other countries, including the United States, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Egypt, India, Italy, and Japan. His work experience outside his home university includes serving as an External Examiner for the Master of Technology (M.Tech) and PhD programmes in the Department of Physics at the Federal University of Technology, Akure.

As evidence of his scholastic distinction, Prof.  Fayose is a recipient of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Scholarship Award for Outstanding Student (1986). He is also a beneficiary of international academic sponsorships, fellowships, and funded participation from several institutions, including the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs in Vienna, the International Centre for Space Weather Science and Education (ICSWSE), the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Italy, the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, the Solar-Terrestrial Environment Laboratory in Japan, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics.

The don holds active memberships in numerous local and international professional bodies, such as the Nigerian Institute of Physics (NIP), the Solar Terrestrial Physics Research Network (STPRN), the International Heliophysical Year (IHY) Nigeria, the Nigerian Astronomical Society of Nigeria (NASN), the Nigerian Geophysical Society, the African Geophysical Society, the Japan Geosciences Union (JPGU), and the American Institute of Physics (AIP).

…urges skill-based system over tribe, religion, certificates

Professor Nnaoma Iwu has advocated the adoption of a technology-driven football theory approach that prioritises skills and talent over ethnicity, educational qualifications, and religion. He argues that this is essential for Nigeria to compete effectively with other nations in the 21st-century era of technological innovation.

He warned that the country will continue to suffer technological setbacks linked to ethnic divisions unless it adopts a strategy that identifies, trains, and supports individuals with specialised skills, enabling them to take their rightful place in the workforce.

Iwu, a Professor of Comparative Politics, Strategic Studies, and Conflict Resolution, proposed this theory on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, while delivering the 61st inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko. The lecture was titled, “Killing the ‘Gods’ of Ethnicity Inhibiting Nigeria’s Journey towards Technological Innovation: Football Theory of Scientific Development to the Rescue.”

According to him, studies have shown that football serves as a source of unity, shared interest, and support among diverse groups in Nigeria. He noted that its player selection process emphasises skills above socio-demographic characteristics, highlighting the potential effectiveness of applying these principles to innovation and technology.

The political scientist further explained that ethnicity itself is not Nigeria’s main problem; rather, the issue lies in how it is used. He noted that the negative exploitation of ethnicity can trigger or worsen conflicts in diverse societies and may prevent qualified and talented individuals from securing positions they deserve. 

This, he said, underscores the need to move away from prevailing narratives about ethnicity and focus more on developing science and technology to enable Nigeria compete with other nations.

While highlighting tertiary institutions as major players in the adoption and effective implementation of the football theory, he described them as national, state, or local teams that provide platforms where innovative ideas are assembled to drive scientific and technological development. 

He further identified academic staff as coaches, while students, fellow lecturers, and non-students, including members of the wider community, serve as players.

Prof. Iwu explained that the role of the coaches, professors and other lecturers, is to identify skills among students, colleagues, and community members, and to train them to develop their potential in science, technology, and innovation. 

He noted that this is essential because many skills can be scientifically harnessed for economic development, particularly through partnerships with individuals and organisations across Africa and beyond. Such collaboration, he said, could facilitate the production of components used in manufacturing finished goods, thereby ensuring efficiency and improved outcomes.

He added that imaginative thinking, often displayed by lecturers, students, and members of the public, can contribute significantly to innovation. 

He cited examples such as individuals skilled in the use of medicinal herbs, traditional medical practitioners, herbal medicine producers, goldsmiths, bone-setters, and others found in various Nigerian communities.

Emphasising the role of the academic community, the don endorsed the integration of football theory into the curriculum of all second-year students in educational institutions as a general course. 

He suggested that physical products should serve as criteria for awarding certificates in science-based disciplines and technical education at all levels. He added that proven skills and talents should form the basis for employment into research institutions.

Prof. Iwu also recommended that English Language and Mathematics should not be made compulsory for individuals with innovative skills and talents seeking admission into educational institutions in the country.

 He noted that this policy would provide opportunities for aspirants with specialised technical skills to gain admission into higher institutions, where they could acquire further knowledge and training.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, noted that the institution’s inaugural lectures serve not merely as an academic tradition but as a forum for bold ideas, public engagement, and social commentary. 

He commended Prof. Iwu for his exemplary service and sustained scholarly impact on the university and the wider community.

…Prof. Obaje proposes Institute of Earth System to unlock national wealth

A university don, Solomon Obaje, has called for robust investment in foundational geoscientific data and the establishment of a comprehensive national geospatial databank as a catalyst for Nigeria’s sustainable development. 

He also urged the government to increase investment in geological databanks within the solid minerals sector, stating that this could boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and strengthen economic growth by improving mineral discoveries and attracting mining investments.

Obaje, a professor of Geology in the Department of Earth Sciences at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, made these calls on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, while delivering the 60th inaugural lecture of the institution, titled, “Not Medicine, But Mission: From Disappointment to Discovery in Geoscience for National Development.”

The geoscientist underscored Nigeria’s vast endowment of mineral resources, noting that the nation’s developmental trajectory remains constrained by inadequate investment in data infrastructure. 

He advocated the revitalisation and sustained funding of national geodata management initiatives, emphasising that geological datasets must be digitised, centralised, and made readily accessible through a transparent and efficient Mining Cadastral System to mitigate exploration risks and enhance investor confidence.

He further urged the Federal Government to adopt a strategic approach to the development of critical minerals, particularly advocating the accelerated exploitation of phosphate deposits in Sokoto State to bridge the nation’s fertiliser deficit and strengthen food security. Additionally, he recommended the initiation of pilot schemes for the extraction of associated minerals, such as uranium, to support long-term energy planning.

Prof. Obaje also stressed the urgency of completing the National Airborne Geophysical Survey, alongside high-resolution geochemical mapping across key basement complex mineral belts, including Kebbi, Edo, Ondo, and Kogi states. 

According to him, such datasets constitute critical diagnostic tools necessary for attracting credible mining investments and strengthening evidence-based resource governance.

The inaugural lecturer also challenged emerging geoscientists to cultivate interdisciplinary competence, urging them to transcend narrow specialisations. He encouraged the acquisition of skills in ICT, artificial intelligence, and data science to enhance the communication of scientific discoveries to policymakers, engineers, and economists.

Prof. Obaje also called on higher institutions to establish institutes of Earth System, Integrated and Computational Geosciences, and to incorporate computational geology into earth sciences curricula, noting that aligning academic research with national economic priorities will enhance capacity for mineral exploration and support sustainable development.

Earlier, while presenting the inaugural lecturer, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, noted that the lecture reflects a journey of purpose beyond initial setbacks, emphasising that geoscience plays a critical role in unlocking the nation’s economic potential. 

He commended Prof. Obaje for transforming early career challenges into impactful discoveries, affirming that the university remains committed to supporting research that drives innovation and sustainable development.

…back consensus, urge Aiyedatiwa to consult widely

… applaud BTO over sustained support 

Notable leaders and elders of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State have warned against the imposition of unpopular candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to carry out wide consultations before decisions are taken.

The elders, under the aegis of the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum, said adopting a consensus approach would help prevent internal crisis, foster unity and improve the party’s electoral chances.

Speaking at a press conference in Akure on Wednesday, the forum’s facilitator, Hon. Demola Ijabiyi, said while the APC remained committed to internal democracy, consensus arrangements had historically helped the party avoid rancorous primaries.

He advised the governor to engage stakeholders at ward, local government and state levels, as well as aspirants, to build trust and ensure inclusiveness in the candidate selection process.

“As elders, we are neutral. We don’t promote or sponsor candidates. We are for everybody. The President gave the governors the nod to play a major role in the emergence of the candidates.

“A wise governor will consult widely before taking any decision. We expect that our governor will consult widely. If there is any crisis after the process, the elders will call all the gladiators and intervene to resolve it,” he said.

Ijabiyi said the elders would step in to mediate disputes arising from the process, stressing that the party must avoid actions capable of dividing members before the elections.

He also disclosed that the forum had introduced a health outreach programme for the elders, providing regular medical screenings such as blood pressure and blood sugar checks, as well as follow-up support for common age-related conditions, through the assistance of qualified medical personnel.

According to him, no fewer than 3,000 elders have so far benefited from the initiative which was aimed at promoting healthy ageing among members.

The group also endorsed the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, urging the APC to adopt him as its sole presidential candidate.

According to him, the endorsement was based on Tinubu’s performance since assuming office in 2023.

He added that the President had taken difficult but necessary decisions, while implementing policies aimed at improving the economy and expanding development across the country.

Ijabiyi also dismissed claims that Nigeria was drifting towards a one-party state, saying the APC’s growing dominance was due to public confidence in its leadership.

He called on party leaders across the country to unite behind Tinubu and ensure a smooth primary process ahead of the 2027 elections.

He particularly commended the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, describing him as a key mobiliser of support for the President in the state.

“This Elders Forum owes its existence to our worthy son, the Hon. Minister of Interior. We came together to promote the Renewed Hope Agenda, and he has supported us in strengthening that mission,” Ijabiyi stated.

He stressed that several support groups under the minister were active across the state, mobilising at ward and unit levels in support of Tinubu’s re-election.

Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, has secured full accreditation status for 20 academic programmes from the National Universities Commission, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence.

In a letter addressed to the university by the Director of Accreditation, Engr. Abraham Chundusu, on behalf of the NUC Executive Secretary, the approved programmes cut across six faculties, reflecting AAUA’s growing academic strength and national recognition.

In the Faculty of Administration and Management, the accredited programmes are Accounting, Banking and Finance, and Public Administration.

In the Faculty of Arts, Linguistics and Yoruba, Philosophy, and Yoruba Language secured full accreditation.

The Faculty of Education recorded the highest number with nine programmes.

 They are Adult Education, Educational Management, Education Biology, Education Mathematics, Education Physics, Education Religious Studies, Health Education, Integrated Science, and Social Studies.

The Faculty of Law also secured full accreditation for its Law programme.

In the Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Geology received full accreditation status.

In the Faculty of Social Sciences, Geography and Planning Sciences, alongside Psychology, were also granted full accreditation.

Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, commended the NUC for its dedication to maintaining quality and high standards across Nigerian universities.

He also praised members of staff for their commitment and steadfastness, assuring that the university would continue to raise standards and sustain excellence in all its programmes.

The NUC conducts periodic accreditation exercises for programmes in Nigerian universities. The last exercise at AAUA was held between October and December 2025.

All preparations have been concluded for Prof. Nnaoma Iwu, a distinguished expert in Comparative Politics, Strategic Studies, and Conflict Resolution at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, to present the institution’s 61st inaugural lecture on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

The lecture, titled “Killing the ‘gods’ of Ethnicity inhibiting Nigeria’s Journey towards Technological Innovation: Football Theory of Scientific Development to the Rescue,” aims to examine ways of overcoming ethnic divisions to enhance national development and accelerate technological innovation in Nigeria.

 The event, which marks another academic milestone at AAUA, will be held in the University Multipurpose Hall at 2pm; guests are urged to be seated by 1.30pm. The lecture promises to generate robust discourse among scholars, policymakers, and students alike.

In a statement, the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Chairman of Ceremonies, Prof. Adebisi Daramola, affirmed that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will chair the event.

Prof. Iwu’s academic journey began in 2000, when he earned a Bachelor of Science degree (Hons) in Political Science from the University of Ibadan. He obtained a Master’s degree in Political Science in 2002, also from the University of Ibadan, and completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science at the same institution in 2014.

He thereafter joined Adekunle Ajasin University in 2014 as a Lecturer I in the Department of Political Science, and has since risen through the academic ranks to become a Professor in 2023.

Aside from teaching and research, Prof. Iwu has served the institution in several capacities. He has served as Acting Head of the Department of Political Science, Coordinator of the Departmental Postgraduate Programme and Part Time Programmes (IPTP), and Secretary of the Local Organising Committee of the Adekunle Ajasin University/Leeds United University (UK) Joint Public Lecture.

A seasoned researcher, the don has authored a book and coauthored chapters in nine other scholarly books, with 31 journal articles to his credit. He has also attended and presented papers at 19 conferences both in Nigeria and abroad, including in Benin, the United States, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom.

Beyond Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, he has worked as a Lecturer II in the Department of Political Science at Tansian University, Oba, Anambra State; the Department of Political Science at Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State; and the Department of Political Science at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. He has also worked as a Facilitator at the National Open University of Nigeria, Akure, Ondo State.

In recognition of his scholarly distinction, Prof. Iwu has received several awards, grants, fellowships, and honours. These include: Award of Excellence from the Department of Political Science, Adekunle Ajasin University; Award of Excellence from the Department of Political Science, Achievers University, Owo; and Award of Excellence from the Department of Political Science, Afe Babalola University, Ekiti. In addition, he was a recipient of the 2016 Brown International Advanced Research Institutes (BIARI) Alumni Funding Grant Competition (Group Project on “Governing Diversity in the Twenty-first Century”); holds a BIARI certificate in Ethnicity, Conflict, and Inequality in Global Perspectives from Brown University, United States (2016); and obtained an Advanced Digital Appreciation Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADAPTI) certificate, Akure (2012).

He holds active membership of the Nigeria Political Science Association (NPSA) and the Society for Peace Studies and Practice (SPSP), and is affiliated with the Knowledge Mill International Foundation (KMIF). He is also a Senior Research Associate at the Minority Issues Research Institute (Research That Matters).

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A renowned geologist, Professor Solomon Obaje, will deliver the 60th inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

The lecture, which marks a significant milestone in the university’s academic calendar, is expected to draw scholars, students, and dignitaries from across the country.

Titled “Not Medicine, But Mission: From Disappointment to Discovery in Geoscience for National Development”, the lecture will take place at the university’s Multipurpose Hall. It is scheduled to begin at precisely 2 pm, while guests are expected to be seated by 1:30 pm.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and Chairman of the Ceremonies Committee, Prof. Adebisi Daramola, confirmed in a statement that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will preside over the event.

Prof. Obaje began his academic journey in 1988 when he earned a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Geology from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

He obtained his Master of Science degree in Geology, specialising in Mineral Exploration and Geochemistry, from the same institution in 2002. In 2012, he completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Geology, with a focus on Biostratigraphy, at the Federal University of Technology, Minna. He joined Adekunle Ajasin University in 1990 as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Earth Sciences and has since risen through the academic ranks, becoming a Professor in 2022.

Throughout his career at the university, Prof. Obaje has served in various capacities, including two terms as Acting Head of Department, Departmental Examination Officer, Pioneer Departmental Postgraduate Coordinator, and Coordinator of the Departmental Geology Programme. A seasoned researcher, he has contributed a chapter to a book and authored 46 published articles. He has also attended and presented papers at 43 conferences, both locally and internationally, in countries such as Ghana, Egypt, Luxembourg, and Turkey. Beyond his home institution, he has worked as a Senior Lecturer at Delta State University, Abraka, and Salem University, Lokoja, and as a Lecturer in Geology and Mining at Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna.

A testament to his scholarly achievements, Prof. Obaje has received numerous awards, grants, and sponsorships. These include the AAUA Research Grant (2024), the Tertiary Education Trust Fund sponsorship for Computer ICDL training and certification at AAUA (2020), the FME/World Bank STEP-B PhD Geology Research Grant (2010), and the Surveyor General of the Federation’s Grant for PhD Thesis Writing (2009). In addition, he has received sponsorships to attend conferences such as the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists’ Annual International Conference (2018) and the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society’s 53rd Annual International Conference (2017). His awards also include the CGG-Veritas-NAPE Grant-in-Aid Award for PhD Geology Research (2009), the Nigerian Association of Geology and Mining Students (NAGAMS) Meritorious Award (1987), and the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics Service Award (1995).

Prof. Obaje is affiliated with numerous professional bodies in Nigeria and abroad. He is a member of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (MNAPE), an affiliate of the Nigerian Computer Society (AMNCS), and an Associate Member of the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (AMCPN). He is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (FNMGS), the Institute of Policy Management and Leadership Development (FIPMLD), and the International Society for Development and Sustainability (FISDS), Japan.

…Prof. Fatukasi says decades of anti-poverty programmes have only deepened Nigeria’s economic dependence

A renowned professor of Development Economics, Adebayo Fatukasi, has argued that government policies aimed at poverty eradication will continue to fail without the inclusion of, and input from, indigenous development economists.

He therefore advocated closer collaboration between the government and development economists to ensure the success of targeted, transformative strategies that would reduce the country’s rising poverty rate.

He also appealed to the government to invest in the simultaneous development of all regions and states in Nigeria. According to him, the current rate of development in the South-West, South-East, and South-South is incomparable to that of the northern regions, which are far behind in terms of development.

Prof. Fatukasi stated this on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, while delivering the 59th inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, titled: “Reducing Poverty in Our Land: Divine Mandate of a Development Economist!”

He acknowledged the various reforms introduced by different administrations to reduce poverty, lamenting that these efforts had instead deepened poverty and increased economic indebtedness and dependence as a result of inadequate funding, lack of proper coordination and commitment, poor design, and weak monitoring and evaluation.

“In 1972, the Federal Government embarked on the National Accelerated Food Production Programme (NAFPP). In 1975, two programmes were launched: the National Agricultural and Co-operative Bank, and Operation Feed the Nation. In 1979, the River Basins Development Authority (RBDA) was created to cater for the development of the basins of the country’s major rivers.

“Others are the Green Revolution of 1980, the Back to Land programme of 1984, the Directorate for Food, Roads and Rural Infrastructure (DFRRI) of 1986, the Nigerian Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) of 1992, the Better Life Programme (BLP) of 1987, the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) of 1986, and the Family Economic Advancement Programme (FEAP) of 1998. 

More recently, we have had the Poverty Alleviation Programme (PAP), the National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS), N-Power of 2016, and the TraderMoni scheme of 2021,” he noted.

Quoting the World Economic Forum, Prof. Fatukasi posited that evidence of these programmes’ failure is reflected in Nigeria’s poverty figures: about 87 million people, representing 38.9 per cent of the population, lived below $2.15 per day in 2024, ranking the country second only to India in global poverty.

He blamed several factors for the poverty rate, including poor employment opportunities, corruption, a poor education system and limited access to education, a poor saving culture, overpopulation, laziness, insecurity, poor government policies, poor quality healthcare, insufficient access to resources, and lack of investment knowledge.

Underlining the role of development economists in a country’s economic development, he stated that they analyse various economic factors such as income distribution, resource allocation, industrialisation, trade, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability in developing countries.

The inaugural lecturer said the importance of development economists includes conducting research, policy formulation, policy analysis, project evaluation, capacity building, advocacy, and, most importantly, giving recommendations and advice on how a developing nation can improve infrastructure, human capital, or the legal environment for enterprise.

The don therefore called on experts in development economics and relevant stakeholders to design targeted strategies that would drive sustainable development and address structural and systemic economic challenges.

He also stressed the need for more context-specific theories, noting that many existing models do not reflect the country’s cultural realities and ways of life. He observed that some so-called experts, particularly those affiliated with multinational donor organisations, often promote sophisticated concepts, elegant theoretical frameworks, and complex econometric models that ultimately result in inappropriate or ineffective policies.

Prof. Fatukasi added that development economists should prioritise practical approaches and models that directly improve the living conditions of citizens and “put food on their tables.”

“Poverty remains a complex problem that occurs everywhere and can be triggered by various factors. Overcoming it requires cooperation from various parties, ranging from individuals and communities to governments and world organisations.

“What becomes of a child raised in a slum? The government’s effective and impactful development policies remain the hope of such a child,” he said.

Earlier, while presenting the inaugural lecturer, the Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, defined inaugural lectures as platforms for sharing transformative ideas and discoveries with the academic community, policymakers, and the wider global audience. 

He commended the don for addressing critical issues affecting the nation and the global community, noting that his research offers practical insights and policy-relevant solutions to pressing socio-economic challenges.