Professor Mary Fasoranti, an expert in development economics, has advocated practical approaches to redeeming Nigeria’s prevailing throes of poverty, stressing that capital-intensive and urban-based growth cannot reduce poverty.

She said only agricultural-based growth and labor-intensive technology have the capacity to reduce poverty.

Prof. Fasoranti gave the counsel while delivering the 24th Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, titled, “Rural Poverty: Incapacitating the Hydra-Headed Monster.”

Prof. Fasoranti underscored the significant role rural economies play in national development, stressing that “the prevalence of poverty is a major issue undermining the role of the rural economy in the overall development of the nation.”

“Despite numerous attempts to combat rural poverty,” she noted, “such efforts have yielded no visible, lasting results.”

She noted that economic growth must occur on a consistent basis and must address the needs of the poor, increase their access to basic services, employment, income-generating opportunities, and reliable markets for output. In other words, economic growth must be inclusive, and the gains from growth must flow down to the poor masses.

“It should be noted that the pattern and stability of economic growth matter much in dealing with poverty. Capital-intensive and urban-based growth cannot reduce poverty. Only agricultural-based growth and labour-intensive technology have the capacity to reduce poverty.”

Highlighting the role of leadership, she urged leaders at various levels to show commitment to improving the plight of the poor. “There is an urgent need for leaders at various levels to cultivate the willingness and commitment to improve the plight of the poor,” she said.

The Inaugural Lecturer emphasized the importance of inclusive economic growth. 

She stated, “Economic growth must occur on a consistent basis and must address the needs of the poor, increase their access to basic services, employment, income-generating opportunities, and reliable markets for output.”

Addressing income and gender inequalities, Prof. Fasoranti remarked, “Deliberate effort should be made to reduce income and gender inequalities. Where these types of inequalities exist, poverty will remain unabated no matter how many laudable policies are put in place.”

While highlighting the need for empowering the poor through education, credit facilities, entrepreneurial training, and skill acquisition as vital strategies, she suggested the re-emphasis of population control policies, such as the four-children-per-family policy introduced by General Ibrahim Babangida.

The don also underscored the need for community-based poverty reduction programs, stressing the importance of community involvement in setting priorities and objectives. “Direct involvement of the poor in the identification, design, and implementation of poverty reduction policies will guarantee adequate, efficient management, and equitable distribution of resources,” she explained.

She called for substantial investment in the agricultural sector and rural infrastructure, including roads, electricity, healthcare, and irrigation. “No nation can thrive without adequate attention to agriculture and the rural areas,” she asserted.

Prof. Fasoranti also addressed the urgent need to end herder-farmer clashes and other security issues, noting that “adequate security networks should be put in place to ensure the safety of farmers and their farmlands.”

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University and Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, had earlier in his welcome address, commended the inaugural lecturer for her significant contributions to academia and society.

He commended Prof. Fasoranti’s dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of economics and societal development.

A distinguished figure in Economics, Professor Mary Modupe Fasoranti is set to deliver the 24th Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria.

The lecture, titled, “Rural Poverty: Incapacitating the Hydra-headed Monster”, is scheduled for Tuesday, May 28, 2024.

According to a statement by the Chairman of the University Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Admin.), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will chair the event. The lecture will take place at the University Multipurpose Hall, commencing at 2:00 pm, with guests urged to be seated by 1:30 pm.

Prof. Modupe Fasoranti’s academic journey includes earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, followed by a Master’s degree in Economics both from University of Benin, Benin City, in 1983 and 1987, respectively, and obtained a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Agric Economics from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Ondo State, in 2006. 

Joining the University on 1st of August, 1988 at the former Ondo State University, Ado Ekiti (OSUA) as an Assistant Lecturer Prof. Fasoranti has ascended through the ranks, achieving the revered position of professor in 2016. 

While she was the pioneer and former Dean of Faculty of The Social Sciences, Prof. Fasoranti has also served the University at one time or another in over 30 capacities. She has attended several local and international conferences, including International Conference on Economic, Finance and Management Outlook in Malaysia; Annual International Conference on Emerging Research Trends in Social Sciences, Humanities, Management Studies in Ghana; and NSFR 4th International Conference on the Effect of Global Economic and Financial Reforms on Developing Economies: A Reassessment at Landmark University.  

Prof. Fasoranti’s prolific academic career is marked by contributions to six books, one edited book, and over 50 articles in learned journals. While she has served as external examiner to many Nigerian universities, Prof. Fasoranti, has supervised over 30 postgraduate students. 

She is a member of a number of professional bodies, including the Nigerian Economic Society, the Social Science Council of Nigeria, the Nigerian Society for Financial Research, and the International Research and Development Institute

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has expressed optimism that the long-abandoned Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Hostel Complex in the institution will soon be completed. 

The Vice Chancellor shared his hope after paying an unscheduled visit to the workers at the hostel site.

He noted that when completed, the project would not only add to the number of hostels in the University but also go a long way in actualizing the wish of the University Management to accommodate more students on campus.

  “My wish is that this project should be completed as quickly as possible. If this is completed, in a short while, we will have a high percentage of our students living on campus. The Management is making efforts to encourage as many partners, vendors, consultants, and contractors as possible to assist us in building on-campus hostel accommodation for our students; and that is why the efforts of the Niger Delta Development Commission at reactivating and completing this massive project are commendable”, he added.

While thanking the contractor and workers for using high-quality materials, the Vice Chancellor added, “I am happy that work is going on in all facets; tiling, electrical, windows, and door fittings are also being done. I’m sure that the team and the contractor working here will complete and deliver this project within the shortest possible time. 

“Upon completion, this project will not only add value to the infrastructure in the University, but it will also bring in many students to live on campus.”

Prof. Ige, who added that the completion of the NDDC hostel would lead to a more conducive living environment for students, thanked the Federal Government and the current leadership of the NDDC for reactivating the project, saying that the institution was lucky to be among the institutions benefitting from the intervention.

It should be noted that the NDDC Hostel complex, with an estimated capacity for one thousand beds spaces, has been abandoned for more than 10 years despite reaching about 60 percent completion. 

The VC said: “This project has been on for a very long time, but shortly before the end of 2023, this contract was reactivated and since then, work has been going on vigorously and we are happy about it.”

He also expressed optimism that another long-abandoned Hostel complex being built by the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) would be revisited and completed by the Commission.

In a bid to address pest-related challenges and achieve food sufficiency, Olanrewaju Olotuah, a distinguished professor of Crop/Pest Management at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, has advocated adoption of technology and the cultivation of plant species with natural defense mechanisms.

Professor Olotuah gave these recommendations during the 23rd Inaugural Lecture of the University, titled “Biodiversity and Resilience: A Shield Against Pests,” held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

Professor Olotuah emphasised the significance of leveraging technology, such as drones, sensors, and artificial intelligence, in revolutionizing pest management practices. He highlighted the potential of these innovations to minimize the use of chemical pesticides, reduce environmental impacts, and enhance crop yields and quality.

He underscored the importance of utilizing plant species with natural defense mechanisms to mitigate pest infestations, highlighting various strategies, including companion planting, cultivation of pest-resistant varieties, and integration of cover crops, as effective means of reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.

The Inaugural Lecturer emphasised the evolving nature of pest management, driven by advancements in science, technology, and innovation. He cautioned against the drawbacks associated with synthetic insecticides and stressed the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly pest management solutions.

According to the Inaugural Lecturer, “The initial primary approach had centred on the use of synthetic insecticides but these were observed to be associated with several problems. Consequently, synthetic insecticides are generally perceived not to be cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The world of pest management is constantly evolving, driven by advances in science, technology, and innovation, as well as shifting ecological, social, and economic dynamics.

“One of the most exciting possibilities on the horizon is the potential for technological innovation to revolutionize pest management practices. From the development of novel biopesticides and genetically engineered crops to the use of drones, sensors, and artificial intelligence for precision pest monitoring and control, the possibilities for innovation are virtually limitless. By harnessing the power of technology, we can develop more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly pest management strategies that minimize the use of chemical pesticides, reduce environmental impacts, and enhance crop yields and quality.

“Another significant strategy involves utilizing certain plant species that possess natural defense mechanisms against pests, thereby reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides. One key aspect is the concept of companion planting, where specific plants are strategically placed alongside crops to repel or attract pests. For example, planting aromatic herbs like basil or marigolds alongside vegetables can deter pests due to their strong scents, serving as a natural pest control measure.”

Prof. Olotuah further highlighted the pivotal role of conserving plant diversity in bolstering resilience against pest infestations. He called for measures such as establishing protected areas, maintaining seed banks, and promoting education and advocacy to preserve plant biodiversity.

The don also emphasised the importance of addressing the social and economic dimensions of pest management, advocating inclusive decision-making processes and the exploration of plant extract formulations for medicinal, therapeutic, and cosmetic use.

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, commended Professor Olotuah for his significant contributions to academia and society. 

He praised the lecturer’s dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of Crop/Pest Management and lauded the importance of inaugural lectures in disseminating valuable research findings and recommendations.

… says Ondo State ‘ll record more dev’t

Ondo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Alhaji Rasheed Badmus, has described the outcome of the just concluded APC governorship primary in the state as a reflection of the people’s choice.

The Commissioner particularly congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his well-deserved victory, saying this will enable him continue to lead the state to greater heights.

Badmus, who described the primary election as peaceful, free and fair, further added that the total commitment of Governor Aiyedatiwa to the all-round development of the Sunshine State also contributed to his landslide victory at the primary.

He lauded the party leaders and members for voting massively for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the party’s standard bearer in the November 16 governorship election in the state.

The commissioner who hails from Afin-Akoko in Akoko North West local government area of the state, explained that the primary recorded large turnouts in support of Aiyedatiwa not only in his local government, the Northern Senatorial district, but across the state, saying the development was an indication that the people wanted the incumbent governor to lead them in another four years.

He specially appreciated President Bola Tinubu for providing leadership and ensuring democratic principles, leading to the peaceful primary in the state.

Badmus lauded the Governorship Primary Committee headed by Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, the National and the State Working Committees of the party, and other stakeholders for delivering the people’s choice as reflected by the primary election. 

Recall that Governor Aiyedatiwa emerged governorship candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), for the November 16 gubernatorial election in the state after defeating 15 other aspirants in the primary election conducted between Saturday and Sunday.

According to the results of the election  announced  by the Primary Election Committee headed by the Kogi State Governor,  Usman Ododo, on Monday morning in Akure, the Ondo State capital, Governor Aiyedatiwa polled 48,569 votes to beat other aspirants in the primary election conducted on Saturday.

Former House of Representatives member, Mayowa Akinfolarin came second with 15,343 votes, while 

Olusola Oke, SAN, came a distant third with 14,915 votes. Immediate past Commissioner for Finance in the state, Wale Akinterinwa scored 1, 952, just as a serving Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim polled 9, 456.

Governor Aiyedatiwa won in 16 local government areas, while Oke won in llaje council. Election was cancelled in Ifedore local government area following the irregularities that marred the election in the area.

Badmus equally urged all other aspirants in the primary to accept the verdict in the spirit of sportsmanship knowing fully well that it is a contest between brothers of the same family.

The Commissioner called on the aspirants to rally round the governor in his determination to continue to deliver more dividends of good governance to the people of the state, saying it is time to unite and work together to ensure landslide victory for the party in the November governorship election in the state.

A warning has gone out to universities in the country, particularly administrative staff, that the whirlwind changes occurring in the global university system call for equally dynamic changes in administrative skills and acumen in order not to be left behind.

A former Registrar of Redeemers University, Osun State, Mr. Olukayode Akindele, gave the warning while speaking as the guest lecturer at the second edition of the Annual Registry Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at the University Multipurpose Hall.

 Examining the topic, “Change Management in University Administration: A Registrars Perspective,” Akindele identified three types of changes in university administration to include incremental, transformational, and revolutionary, and warned that any administrator or institution that fails to adapt to these fast-paced changes stands the risk of being changed or forgotten.

Akindele advised that changes should be embraced rather than fought and resented, adding that changes are part of life. He warned that the exodus of students of Nigerian origin to Europe and some African countries poses a new challenge to the university system and administrators to come up with solutions to the trend. 

He added that digital technologies, security challenges, and some government agencies have all contributed to pushing the resourcefulness of varsity administrators to the limit.

Akindele also identified what he called the shifting funding landscape, technological advancements, curriculum reform, globalization of education, ever-increasing student enrolment, social and political issues, and focus on research and innovation as recent major changes in Nigerian universities that call for adaptation and resourcefulness.

According to him, “Leadership of our universities should promote transparency and communication. It should openly communicate changes to stakeholders (students, faculty, staff) and address concerns appropriately, and encourage collaboration between faculty, administration, students, and the private sector. 

“There is a need for continuous improvement through regular assessment of progress and adapting strategies based on feedback and data. By proactively managing these changes, Nigerian universities can remain strong institutions that produce well-rounded graduates for the future’.

Speaking on the future of Nigerian universities, the guest lecturer identified five challenges that must be overcome in the decades ahead. 

These are: universities must find ways to maintain academic excellence and deliver quality teaching and research, attract new workers that can support new business models, deepen their commercial skills and capability both administratively and academically, market with new teaching and research programmes and innovations, and search for ways to move beyond the perennial struggle for government funding.

He called on university management to embrace emerging technologies, improve communication channels with necessary stakeholders, prioritize student support opportunities, invest in staff training, promote collaborative efforts, seek feedback, and implement needed changes, and to continuously measure their performance.

Speaking earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, underscored the importance of manpower development and training in the quest to establish a university administration that will be in tune with modern trends. 

While commending the Registry staff of the University for rising to the cry of building an institution that conforms to the 21st Century, the Vice-Chancellor urged them not to rest on their oars in sustaining the universitys rating as first among equals.

Also speaking, the University Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, not only thanked the lecturer for coming to share from his wealth of experience as an administrator but also urged the gathering to take the lessons of the lecture to heart in order to boost their productivity and output.

Participants at the lecture included members of staff of Adekunle Ajasin University as well as colleagues from sister institutions and those who joined online from across the country.

Reviewer: Kola Olaniyan, _Ph.D_

Kówódé, an eponymous dramatic form published by Kraftgriots few weeks ago, explores new dimension to rape and girl child molestation in modern day Nigeria. From the interactions among the characters and a flashback to an era in the country’s sociopolitical life, we understand that the reason(s) given for incidents of rape and sexual molestation of the opposite gender by men have advanced from just untamed libidinal desire or attractions to ritual purposes precipitated by the crazy pursuit of wealth in recent time. Kówódé’s adventure to seek way out of his penury reveals that “Women are the best materials in rituals if you want the best results. Virgin for money, mothers for awure, pregnant ones for positions of power.” (Priest, page 12)

Here, Lara Owoeye has not only challenged men heinous crime against women but also the cosmics in their discrimination against this special gender. Do we say the gods also subscribe to the patriarchal conspiracy against women’s existence to the extent that nothing else placate them better than the female blood! This is a question only the gods and their custodians can answer in a society drifting towards plutomaniac and loss of value for human lives.

Through Stella, a rape victim in the play, the readers get a vivid picture of the psychological and health  hazards often suffered by a rape victim. A rape victim faces threats from the culprit and suffers in silence to avoid being stigmatisatised by others: parents, uncles, friends, law enforcement agencies etc. Some like Stella, may suffer barrenness resulting from the termination of unwanted pregnancy stemming from rape incident. The trauma is so severe that Stella affirms that “it is a lifetime pain that is worse than murder”.

Centering on serious matters of money ritual, sexual assault and religious perversion, the play is presented in eight movements titled ‘Situation’. All through the situations, the play sustains the readers in a high suspense as the protagonist, Kówódé, battles with his inner conflict and the dilemma of getting a virgin to sleep with as part of the ritual process required by Priest to get him wealthy. The tempo of the suspense keeps rising as the protagonist’s friend, Fẹranmi, his alter ego, keeps pointing out various means by which he can get a virgin for the required ritual. Seeing his wife leading the agitation against rape and sexual assault against female gender on the other hand, he is caught in the web of a great confusion and mental conflicts. 

Seeking spiritual solution to this entanglement from a church does not help matter. Kówódé eventually surrenders to the propelling external voices and nemesis consequently catches up with him in his attempt to defile his daughter, Tayo, for money ritual. At the end, he runs naked on the street in his state of mental disorder.

Apart from the predominant suspense in the play, the playwright has successfully explores other dramatic devices and spectacles like songs, dance, dramatic monologue and soliloque. The use of religious songs particularly reinforces such innuendos that have crept into religious worship and faith on ill-gotten wealth in the modern society.

No doubt, Kówódé is a story of an impatient man who chooses divination against hard work in a society driven by the mad pursuit of quick money. The play particularly underscores another feminist statement on the need for the female gender to come together and join forces against these novel elements that want to turn the female folks to “endangered species” in a society that is meant for all to flourish within their capacities.

The play is the fifth in the creative arsenal of Lara Owoeye, a professor of African Literature in the Department of English and Literary Studies, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti. Other titles under her auspices include: _One Life_, _Another Wives’ Revolt_, _No Honourable at Night_ and _Erelu_ .  She is also the author of _Time to Sing and Other Poems_, a collection of poetry.

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has emphasized the importance of leveraging the University’s culture of excellence for the students’ success while warning against indulging in any form of vices. 

Prof. Ige stated this while addressing the newly admitted students of the institution for the 2023/2024 academic session at the Matriculation Ceremony held on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

He called on the fresh students to embrace the opportunity of their admission to AAUA and become part of the university’s ongoing journey towards establishing a 21st-century academic institution.

 “While I congratulate you, dear students, I call on you to seize the opportunity of your admission to AAUA to be a part of this glorious heritage we are trying to build  a 21st-century University, properly called. I urge you to be builders of this academic edifice built on the blocks of discipline, hard work, diligence, determination, and courage,” Prof. Ige said.

The VC reiterated the university’s zero-tolerance policy towards social vices, including examination misconduct, indecent dressing, cult activities, rape, and robbery. 

He warned that any student found engaging in such vices would face expulsion from the university.

Prof. Ige also highlighted AAUA’s commitment to academic integrity, quality research, teaching, leadership development, staff, and student welfare, as well as social relevance. 

He commended the exemplary performance of AAUA students and emphasized the university’s dedication to excellence in sports, entertainment, and artistic performances.

“For us at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), we remain steadfast in our dedication to excellence. By prioritizing the quality of our academic programs and research initiatives, we have fortuitously strengthened our position in the digital sphere,” Prof. Ige affirmed.

He also highlighted their privileged status, noting that out of more than 12,500 candidates who applied for admission, only 6,670 were admitted, making them among the lucky few to be part of AAUA.

The Matriculation Oath was administered to the students by the Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, JP, marking their official induction into the AAUA community and the commencement of their academic journey at the institution.

The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, who was represented by Barr. Muyiwa Odekunle, attended the ceremony

All is now set for the Matriculation Ceremony at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State. 

The ceremony, which will be presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, is scheduled to take place tomorrow, Thursday, March 14, 2024, to administer the Oath of Matriculation to the newly admitted students for the 2023/2024 academic session.

In a statement issued by the Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, JP, the ceremony will be conducted at the University Multipurpose Hall, commencing at 11:00 a.m.

 Mr. Arajulu emphasized that all incoming students are required to have fulfilled their financial obligations by paying the prescribed school fees and completing their registration procedures before the Matriculation day.

The Matriculation Ceremony serves as a formal launch into the academic ethos and values of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, representing a commitment to academic excellence, integrity, and responsible citizenship.

Alaba Emmanuel Gbadamosi, a distinguished Professor of Silviculture and Plant Biotechnology, is set to deliver the 22nd Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko.

 The lecture, titled “The Earths Heating Mantle: Forest to the Rescue”, is scheduled for Tuesday, February 27, 2024.

According to a statement by the Chairman of the University Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Admin.), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will chair the event.

 The lecture will take place in the University Multipurpose Hall, commencing at 2:00 pm, with guests urged to be seated by 1:30pm.

Prof. Gbadamosis academic journey includes earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Resources Management in 1995, followed by a Master’s degree in Forest Biology and Silviculture in 1998, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Silviculture and Tree Improvement in 2002, all from the University of Ibadan.

Prof, Gbadamosi, a thoroughbred academic, researcher and administrator of over 25 years, joined the services of AAUA in 2005. Prof. Gbadamosi’s prolific academic career is marked by the publication of over 47 articles in learned journals.

 He is a lead investigator of 10 leading-edge research. He has attended several local and international conferences and presented papers in eight, including the 3rd International Conference on Engineering and Applied Natural Sciences, Konya, Turkey, and the XXV IUFRO World Congress, Curitiba, Brazil. 

A grant-winning scholar, Prof. Gbadamosi has won 11 awards and grants, including International Foundation for Science (IFS) Pre-Grant Traveling Award, and Research Grant, AAUA Research Grant for Yam Research, Islamic Development Bank (IDB) sponsored Training at the Malaysian Rice Development Institute, and TETFUND Research grant for Tomato Research.

He holds membership of Forestry Association of Nigeria (FAN), Forestry Australia, Society for Conservation Biology (SCB), Member, Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), Nigerian Plant Breeders Association (NPBA), and Initiative for Biodiversity Conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa (IBCSSA).

Presently, he is member of the AAUA Council, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, and Director of Centre for Entrepreneurship Development