…Prof. Oluwasuji advocates diversification into agriculture, manufacturing, technology

Olawole Oluwasuji, a professor at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, has advocated the diversification of Nigeria’s economy through sustained investment in agriculture, manufacturing and the creative industries.

 He warned that a nation heavily reliant on oil exports and imported technology cannot claim full autonomy, as its sovereignty remains constrained by the conditions of external markets.

Prof. Oluwasuji, a scholar of Political Science and Public Administration, made the recommendation on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, while delivering the institution’s 65th inaugural lecture titled, “Nigeria’s Fragile Economy: Removing the Contours and Roadblocks to Sustainable Development.”

Describing a monolithic economy—where a country’s earnings depend heavily on a single sector—as regressive, he cited insecurity in the Niger Delta region, where most onshore oil production takes place.

 He noted that the unrest has resulted in significant production losses since the 2000s, saying: “It is more hazardous as the nation’s oil output is the worst hit, with the loss of 600,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Nigeria’s daily oil revenue loss for 2006 was a whopping $700,000,000.”

The don also lamented Nigeria’s dependence on the global economy, citing the impact of the global recession and the COVID-19 pandemic on the local economy. He explained that the pandemic led to a 55 per cent decline in oil prices between the last quarter of 2019 and April 2020.

According to him, this compelled the Federal Government to review its earlier projected revenue collection of N8.24 trillion, which was based on an oil price benchmark of $57 per barrel and a production target of 2.2 million barrels per day.

“This COVID-19-induced liquidity squeeze has certainly undermined the capacity of the federal and state governments to implement policies and programmes designed to reduce poverty and promote inclusive growth and development,” he added.

Prof. Oluwasuji further highlighted several factors hindering Nigeria’s self-reliance, including corruption, insecurity, policy instability, nepotism, youth agitation, ineffective past policies, lack of continuity in government programmes, human capital deficits, weak institutional frameworks and policy inconsistency.

 He noted that these internal fragilities create external vulnerability, arguing that when fiscal or energy systems depend on external inputs, political autonomy becomes negotiable.

Proposing sustainable development as the surest path to national independence, the inaugural lecturer stated: “Nigeria possesses a combination of human resources, natural endowments and geopolitical weight that can, if effectively harnessed, translate into sustainable autonomy. Achieving this goal, however, requires coherent policies, disciplined leadership and strategic foresight.”

In this context, Prof. Oluwasuji recommended repositioning Nigeria’s economy through the productive diversification of export commodities and a focus on the manufacture of local intermediate goods such as textiles, pharmaceuticals and electronics to reduce dependence on imports. 

He also emphasised the need to prioritise investment in science, research and innovation, as well as the development of indigenous technological capacity to enhance Nigeria’s autonomy.

According to him, these objectives can be achieved by strengthening research institutions such as the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and universities through predictable funding and merit-based governance. 

He added that Nigeria must invest in data protection, satellite surveillance and artificial intelligence to enhance national security and promote self-reliance.

Prof. Oluwasuji further advocated granting anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC greater autonomy from political interference to strengthen transparency and accountability and restore public trust. He also called for the introduction of capital punishment for corruption, arguing that existing anti-corruption measures have proved ineffective in addressing the menace.

The don stressed the importance of engaging Nigeria’s youth population, noting that exclusion, unemployment and poor education limit the country’s capacity to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. He suggested that the education system should be restructured and adequately funded to align with national industrial and technological needs.

To prevent skilled professionals from migrating in search of greener pastures, Prof. Oluwasuji urged the government to create conditions that reward merit and provide opportunities for young people.

Earlier, while introducing the inaugural lecturer, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of the Occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described inaugural lectures as the university’s contribution to human and national development. 

He commended Prof. Oluwasuji for advancing this institutional mandate through his scholarly work and commitment to development.

Professor Alaba Akingbesote, a distinguished expert in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and e-market services, is set to deliver the 66th Inaugural Lecture at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. The lecture, titled “From Traditional Markets to Bidirectional AI-Cloud E-Marketplaces: Emergence, Challenges and Expectations,” will examine the profound global shift from conventional physical trading environments to sophisticated, AI-driven digital economies.

According to a statement released by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and Chairman of the Ceremonies Committee, Professor Adebisi Daramola, the event will take place at the University Multipurpose Hall at 2:00 pm. The Vice Chancellor, Prof.  Olugbenga Ige, will chair the historic occasion.

Prof. Akingbesote boasts an illustrious academic career spanning over three decades. He began his journey in higher education at Ogun State University, Ago-Iwoye, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in Computer Science in 1994. He went on to earn a Master of Technology degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in 2004, before securing his Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science from the University of Zululand, South Africa, in 2015.

His long-standing relationship with Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko,  began in 1995 when he joined the institution, then known as Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti, as a Graduate Assistant. Through a steadfast commitment to research and teaching excellence, he steadily climbed the academic ranks over the next twenty-five years, culminating in his promotion to full Professor in 2020.

Beyond his core teaching and research responsibilities, Prof.  Akingbesote has held several key administrative positions within the university. He has previously served as the Acting Director of the Centre for Distance Learning, and has lent his leadership skills to his home department as the Acting Head of Department, Departmental Staff Adviser, and Departmental Examination Officer.

As a prolific scholar, Prof. Akingbesote has authored two introductory academic textbooks and published 34 articles in reputable peer-reviewed journals. His research footprint extends far beyond Nigeria, having presented papers at more than 20 local and international conferences across the United Kingdom, Ghana, South Africa, Mauritius, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Tunisia, and the United Arab Emirates.

His contributions to the global computing community have also earned him significant international accolades. Notably, he received the Best Paper Presenter Award for Cloud Computing at the IEEE 6th International Conference on Adaptive Science and Technology in Nigeria in 2014. This followed his success in 2012, where he was awarded the second prize for Best PhD Oral Presentation at the 7th Annual Faculty of Science and Agriculture Symposium at the University of Zululand.

Outside his home university, Prof. Akingbesote has shared his expertise as an Adjunct Lecturer at Achievers University in Owo, and as an External Examiner for the Department of Software Engineering at FUTA. 

He maintains an active membership with the prestigious Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), using the global platform to advocate for technological innovations that drive human development.

The highly anticipated lecture promises to provide vital insights into the regulatory challenges, economic opportunities, and future expectations surrounding AI-cloud integration in modern commerce. The event is scheduled to begin promptly at 2:00 pm, and guests are respectfully requested to be seated by 1:30 pm.

Preparations have been concluded for the 65th inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, as Prof. Olawole Oluwasuji, a distinguished scholar in the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, prepares to deliver the landmark lecture on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

Prof. Oluwasuji, whose academic specialisation lies in Political Economy and Development Studies, will speak on the thought-provoking topic: “Nigeria’s Fragile Economy: Removing the Contours and Roadblocks to Sustainable Development.” 

The lecture promises to dissect the structural vulnerabilities of the Nigerian economy, exploring policy inconsistencies, institutional weaknesses, and developmental bottlenecks, while proffering actionable pathways toward resilience and long-term growth.

He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the then Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti (now Ekiti State University) in 1997. He proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he earned a Master of Science degree in Political Science with a focus on Public Administration in 2002. 

He later capped his formal education with a PhD in Political Science (specialising in Political Economy and Development Studies) from Kogi State University, Anyigba, in 2017.

Prof. Oluwasuji joined Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, in 2003 as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Public Administration. Through dedication and scholarly output, he steadily climbed the academic ladder, earning promotion to the rank of Prof. in 2024.

Over the years, he has served the university in various capacities, including Acting Head of the Department of Public Administration, Chairman of the Faculty of Administration and Management Sciences Project Committee, Chairman of the Faculty of Education’s Investigation Panel on Examination Misconduct, and Postgraduate School Representative for his faculty.

A prolific researcher and author, Prof. Oluwasuji has made significant contributions to knowledge. He has co-authored two books, authored 32 journal articles, and contributed chapters to 13 edited academic volumes. His research spans political economy, governance, public sector reforms, and sustainable development.

 He is also an active participant in local and international academic conferences. Notably, he presented a paper at the Second Outstanding African Thinkers Conference held in Abomey-Calavi, Republic of Benin, where his work received commendation from peers.

Beyond the walls of his home institution, Prof. Oluwasuji has served as a Postgraduate External Examiner at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti. He has also held visiting academic positions, including Visiting Prof. at Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, and Visiting Reader at both Landmark University, Omu-Aran, and Precious Cornerstone University, Ibadan. These cross-institutional roles have enriched his pedagogical approach and broadened his scholarly network. He maintains active membership in the National Association of Political Science (NAPS) and doubles as a facilitator with the Association of Public Administration Researchers (ASPAR), where he regularly mentors emerging scholars and contributes to policy dialogue.

In a statement released by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, it was confirmed that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will chair the occasion.

The inaugural lecture is scheduled to hold at the University Multipurpose Hall, with guests expected to be seated by 1:30 pm. The main lecture will commence promptly at 2:00 pm.

Sunday Awoniyi, a Professor of Social Ethics at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, has proposed the reintegration of African ethical values to promote morality, responsibility, justice and selflessness among leaders and citizens as a way of tackling corruption and moral decay in Nigeria.

Prof. Awoniyi made this known on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, while delivering the institution’s 64th inaugural lecture titled, “The Wages of Corruption and Leadership Failure: Socio-Ethical Frameworks as Pathways to Social Transformation.”

The don argued that, contrary to the belief that corruption results from legal, administrative, and economic failures, it is fundamentally a socio-ethical problem stemming from a distorted ethical consciousness in society, where “vice appears virtuous and injustice appears normal.”

While bemoaning the consequences of corruption and leadership failure on societal development, he warned that corruption in Nigeria and across Africa has become systemic. 

According to him, it is now embedded in institutions, normalised in culture, and often rationalised as a survival strategy.

Prof. Awoniyi highlighted various forms of corruption, including bribery, embezzlement, extortion, nepotism, money laundering, vote rigging, patronage, misappropriation of public funds, and contract scams. 

He also noted unethical political practices such as agitation for second terms and the abuse of entrusted power or position for personal gain.

He stated that these practices have resulted in weakened institutions, economic stagnation, and the erosion of public trust. He added that they have further denied poor Nigerians access to healthcare, education, and dignity, while leadership failure worsens the situation through a refusal to repent, make restitution and implement reform.

In addition to moral decay, he blamed personal greed, declining ethical sensitivity, lack of accountability, societal acceptance of corruption, weak transparency, slow judicial processes, trivialisation of corruption cases, absence of moral criteria in promotions and poor encouragement of moral uprightness.

The social ethicist proposed a socio-ethical approach that integrates moral values, social institutions, cultural narratives, and public accountability to drive moral transformation, rather than relying on legal reforms, which he said have repeatedly failed to change the country.

On a fundamental level, Prof. Awoniyi urged relevant institutions to embrace virtue ethics and character formation, alongside the revival and reintegration of African ethical values. He highlighted traditional values such as respect for elders and leaders as essential for wisdom and social stability. 

He also stressed collective responsibility in supporting vulnerable groups, including orphans, widows, and the elderly, as well as participation in communal endeavours as a necessity rather than a choice.

He further stated that conflict resolution and the promotion of social harmony should be treated as shared responsibilities, not left solely to legal institutions, warning that the decline of these values has significantly contributed to Africa’s contemporary social challenges.

Prof. Awoniyi called for the institutionalisation of ethics, moral philosophy, civic responsibility, and accountability training at all levels of leadership development, including political, public, and corporate service.

 He also emphasised the need for moral re-socialisation and strengthened civic education at every level of schooling, with a focus on trust, social responsibility and the collective good over personal gain.

Aside from strengthening the justice system and accountability, he further appealed to leaders to embody the values they promote, adding that public ethics should be demonstrated visibly and consistently.

“Anti-corruption policies should be combined with legal enforcement, ethical education, institutional reform, and cultural transformation. This is because punishment alone cannot defeat corruption without moral consensus.

“In addition, active citizenship and moral courage should be encouraged by protecting whistle-blowers and civil society actors, effectively promoting an ethical intolerance of corruption at the societal level,” Prof. Awoniyi said.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, congratulated the lecturer on delivering the university’s 64th inaugural lecture, describing it as a historic academic tradition and an intellectual milestone. 

He commended Prof. Awoniyi for his intellect and courage in advancing ideas and research that address societal challenges and promote national development.

* Tasks policymakers on innovation-driven economy, stronger entrepreneurial mindset devt

Prof. Timothy Ihinmoyan, Professor of Business Administration at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, has called on the government to prioritise entrepreneurial policies that encourage job creation, foster a sustainable business environment, drive economic growth and improve the living standards of Nigerians.

He made the call on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, while delivering the university’s 63rd inaugural lecture titled, “Marketing and Consumers’ Destiny: Spacing, Shaping and Strategies in the 21st Century,” held at the university’s Multipurpose Hall.

According to Prof. Ihinmoyan, Nigeria needs a government that promotes transparency and good governance to instil confidence in its citizens, a goal achievable only when disciplined and responsible leaders provide for the people’s needs.

Describing marketing as customer-centred, he stressed that production ultimately aims at customer satisfaction through high-quality goods and services that encourage repeat purchases and referrals.

“Quality customer service is a necessary tool for retaining customers,” he noted, adding that it also promotes awareness and drives product adoption.

He explained that customer satisfaction derives not simply from high-quality services, but from meeting expectations through continuously improved service delivery at minimal cost.

Consumer strategies, he said, involve planned actions such as budgeting, research, and timing of purchases, with 21st-century approaches increasingly leveraging digital platforms.

To improve service quality, Prof. Ihinmoyan urged organisations to strengthen their customer relations departments to effectively handle complaints and provide regular customer service training for staff.

He also recommended the monitoring and evaluation of service delivery systems to keep pace with technological changes.

He highlighted several challenges facing today’s consumer space, including information overload, difficulty in decision-making, data privacy concerns, social and emotional pressure, subscription-based models, post-purchase fatigue and overdependence on digital platforms.

According to him, possible solutions include greater transparency, personalised services powered by artificial intelligence, stronger supply chains, sustainable business models, secure digital systems and proactive regulation.

To enhance the contribution of small-scale businesses to the economy, Prof. Ihinmoyan urged the government to provide critical infrastructure, increase youth participation in entrepreneurship, and, together with communities, ensure adequate security for business owners, noting that environmental factors significantly affect business performance and patronage.

He further called on policymakers to develop sustainable strategies that promote entrepreneurial orientation, drive innovation, and create platforms that foster an entrepreneurial mindset among existing and aspiring business owners.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the Occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described the inaugural lecture as a moment of accountability, celebration and an opportunity to share in the lecturer’s lifetime of research.

He commended Prof. Ihinmoyan for his dedication to the university’s development and his remarkable service.

A distinguished Professor of Social Ethics, Sunday Awoniyi, will address the societal consequences of corruption and leadership failure, as well as propose solutions, at the 64th inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State.

The lecture, titled “The Wages of Corruption and Leadership Failure: Socio-Ethical Frameworks as Pathways to Social Transformation,” is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at the university multipurpose hall. It will begin at 2 p.m., while guests are expected to be seated by 1:30 p.m.

Prof. Awoniyi’s academic journey began in 1990 with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He obtained a Master of Arts in the same field from the University of Ibadan in 1995, followed by a Master of Philosophy in 2007 and a Doctor of Philosophy in 2012, both at the University of Ibadan.

He joined Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, in 2001 as a Lecturer II in the Department of Religion and African Culture. He rose steadily through the academic ranks and attained the position of professor in 2019.

Beyond the lecture hall, Prof. Awoniyi has served the university in several administrative capacities. He has been Acting Head of Department of Religion and African Culture, Coordinator of the Departmental Postgraduate Programme, Sandwich Degree Programme, Pre-degree Programme, and Seminar Series.

 He has also served as Chairman of the Faculty of Arts Postgraduate School Board, and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the 42nd Annual Conference of the National Association for the Study of Religions (NASR), held at Adekunle Ajasin University.

A seasoned scholar, Prof. Awoniyi has authored two books and contributed chapters to seven scholarly books. He has 34 journal articles to his credit. He has attended and presented papers at 25 conferences in Nigeria and other countries, including Ghana, Cameroon, Kenya, Botswana and South Africa.

Outside Adekunle Ajasin University, he has worked as a part-time lecturer for the University of Uyo degree programme at Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun. He has also served as an external examiner in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Ibadan and at Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo.

He is a member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Association for the Study of Religions (NASR), the Association of Science and Religion in the Service of Humanity, the Local Societies Initiative (LSI), and the National Association for the Promotion of Studies in Arts and Social Sciences (NAPSASS). He is also a member of international associations such as the African Association for the Study of Religion (AASR) and the European Centre for Research Training and Development, United Kingdom (ECRTD).

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

The lecture is expected to explore socio-ethical frameworks as practical solutions to the societal consequences of corruption and leadership failure, while promoting social transformation.

• Group urges APC members to unite behind President’s re-election bid

The PBAT Mandate Elders Forum, Ondo State has intensified mobilisation efforts across the state in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary election.

The forum said the grassroots mobilisation campaign was aimed at galvanising party faithful, strengthening unity within the APC, and consolidating support for President Tinubu’s re-election aspiration under the Renewed Hope agenda.

In a statement jointly credited to the Facilitator of the forum, Chief Demola Ijabiyi, and the Secretary, Hon. Ebenezer Alabi, the group said members and supporters of the APC in Ondo State must remain committed to the ideals of the party and rally behind President Tinubu’s leadership.

The statement noted that President Tinubu had continued to demonstrate courage and visionary leadership through ongoing economic and political reforms targeted at repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and development.

According to the forum, the mobilisation drive would involve ward-to-ward sensitisation programmes, stakeholders’ engagements, community consultations, and strategic meetings across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State.

Chief Ijabiyi stated that the forum was convinced that continuity in leadership remained critical to sustaining the administration’s policies and programmes, especially in the areas of economic recovery, infrastructure development, security, and youth empowerment.

He urged APC leaders and members in the state to place the interest of the party above personal ambitions and work collectively towards ensuring a successful presidential primary for President Tinubu.

The forum further appealed to party faithful to avoid divisive politics capable of creating disunity within the APC, stressing that the success of the party in future elections would depend largely on internal cohesion and collective responsibility.

Hon. Ebenezer Alabi, on his part, said the elders’ forum remained committed to peaceful and issue-based political engagement, adding that the group would continue to mobilise support for the President through lawful and democratic means.

He also called on eligible members of the party to participate actively in APC programmes and activities, including membership registration and validation exercises, as part of efforts to strengthen the party structure ahead of future elections.

The forum expressed confidence that President Tinubu would secure overwhelming support from APC stakeholders and delegates during the presidential primary, describing him as a tested democrat and experienced leader with the capacity to steer the nation towards greater prosperity.

The PBAT Mandate Elders Forum reaffirmed its readiness to continue mobilising support for the President across Ondo State and the South-West region in line with the collective aspiration of ensuring the continuity of the APC-led administration at the federal level.

A renowned specialist in the field of Business Administration, Professor Timothy Ihinmoyan, is scheduled to deliver the 63rd inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The lecture, entitled “Marketing and Consumers’ Destiny: Spacing, Shaping and Strategies in the 21st Century”, aims to explore how modern marketing influences consumer behaviour and the ways in which marketers can design strategies that focus on understanding and meeting consumer needs. The inaugural lecture will take place at the University Multipurpose Hall at 2:00 pm, and guests are requested to be seated by 1:30 pm.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and Chairman of Ceremonies, Prof. Adebisi Daramola, disclosed in a statement that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will chair the event. He noted that the inaugural lecture represents another significant milestone in the university’s continuous pursuit of academic excellence.

Prof. Ihinmoyan’s academic journey began in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in Economics, which he obtained from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. In 1995, he was awarded a Master of Science degree in Business Administration by the University of Ilorin, Ilorin, and later earned his Doctor of Philosophy from the same institution in 2010.

Following his appointment at Adekunle Ajasin University in 2011 as a Lecturer I in the Department of Business Administration, he has consistently progressed through the academic ranks to become a Professor in 2019.

Prof. Ihinmoyan has served the university in several administrative capacities: as Acting Head of the Department of Business Administration, twice as Head of the Department, Departmental Postgraduate Coordinator, Chairman of the Faculty of Administration and Management Sciences’ Postgraduate Seminar Committee, and the Faculty’s Students’ Staff Adviser. He has also acted as the Faculty’s representative on the Postgraduate School Board and on the Senate Business Committee.

A prolific researcher, the business administrator has contributed intellectually to one book and has authored 27 published journal articles. He has attended and presented papers at several conferences both locally (in Nigeria) and internationally (including Ghana).

Beyond teaching and mentoring at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Prof. Ihinmoyan has worked as a Course Instructor at the National Open University, Sobi Special Study Centre, Ilorin; as a Lecturer I at Adamawa State University, Mubi; and as a Part-time Lecturer at Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State.

The don is actively affiliated with numerous professional bodies and holds the Certified Management Professional (CMP) qualification from London Bridge Business School. He is a chartered member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the Nigerian Institute of Marketing, and a full member of the Nigerian Economic Society (NES). He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Policy Management Development (IPMD) and the Africa Institute of Public Administration.

…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.