Inaugural Lecture: Nigeria Not as Divided as Believed, Plagued by Bad Leadership, AAUA Don Asserts

Inaugural Lecture: Nigeria Not as Divided as Believed, Plagued by Bad Leadership, AAUA Don Asserts

"Nigerians only believe that they are divided, but there are no facts to support such a belief. The call for restructuring is anchored on the false premise that the various ethnic nationalities are incompatible. A country with over 250 ethnic nationalities, over 500 languages, and a population of over 200 million, and we are still at relative peace! Then how do we define unity? The country’s biggest challenge is the political will to transform these potentials into wealth, welfare, and security of the state."

These were the words of Simon Ehiabhi, a Professor of African Political and Diplomatic History, during the 26th Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. The lecture was titled "Historical Consciousness, Shared Identity and the Quest for a Restructured Nigeria."

Prof. Ehiabhi asserted that the call for restructuring was based on the false belief that Nigeria's various ethnic nationalities were incompatible. He emphasized that Nigerians were more united than commonly expressed and that there was no possibility of disintegration. He stressed the need to develop a Nigerian model of shared identity.

"It is the leadership failure that has brought Nigerians to the point of agitation for restructuring and not the falsely created construct of ethnic incompatibility," he said.

Prof. Ehiabhi further argued that Nigeria's problem lies in its political leadership, not its structure. "Nigeria is suffering from Acute Leadership Deficiency Syndrome (ALDS). This ailment exists because of the nature of Nigerian politics and leadership recruitment. The character of the state is often a reflection of the kind of leaders managing the state. There should be a search for visionary and pragmatic political leadership that may appreciate the value of history in order to develop a shared Nigerian identity through historical consciousness."

 

Looking ahead, Prof. Ehiabhi made several recommendations to address the ongoing call for restructuring to include: ethnic agitation and discordant expression should not be treated as felony by the Nigerian state but understood as indicators of distress, dissatisfaction, and apprehension about government policies.

"There is an urgent need for constitutional empowerment of recognized traditional institutions as they are custodians of historical consciousness and shared identity that define post-colonial relations. The teaching of national integrative history should be made compulsory at all educational levels to build a commonly-shared identity from an early stage. Introducing national values of common good to children at infancy can help instill the right patriotic values.

"Restructuring without historical consciousness is futile; therefore, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) should focus on sustained advocacy on cultural points of convergence through historical narrative. Political commentaries should de-emphasize the narrative of a divided Nigeria, as there are ample accounts to establish a sense of brotherhood among Nigeria’s federating units.

"Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) should revive their role in challenging bad governance as they did during the military era in Nigerian politics. Continued criticism of bad policies through public advocacy based on historical facts can help curb bad governance."

Earlier, while introducing the Inaugural Lecturer, the Chairman of the event and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described Prof. Ehiabhi as a thoroughbred academic and sought-after speaker at seminars and lectures.

AAUA Inaugural Lecture: Deploy GIS to Tackle Security, Disaster, Agriculture Challenges, Don Urges Govt.

 AAUA Inaugural Lecture: Deploy GIS to Tackle Security, Disaster, Agriculture Challenges, Don Urges Govt.

• Wants ODSG to Establish SGIS

A Professor of Environmental Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Prof. Ebenezer Yemi Ogunbadewa, has emphasised the necessity of establishing a national geospatial agency to coordinate the development and application of GIS to address various challenges facing Nigeria.

Prof. Ogunbadewa also called on the Ondo State Government to create a State Geographic Information System (SGIS) to harness its potential benefits.

Prof. Ogunbadewa made these recommendations on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, during the 25th Inaugural Lecture of the University, titled, “Visualization Without Barriers: The Quintessence of Geospatial Technology in Environmental Management.”

The Inaugural Lecturer, who defined GIS as a computer-based system that has the capabilities to input, store, manipulate, analyse, and display output of geographically (spatially) referenced information about anywhere on the earth’s surface in a database system using appropriate software, said, “Governments at all levels should develop geospatial data infrastructure for storage, management, and sharing of geospatial information; build capacity and expertise through training and education programmes which in turn will benefit our environmental health, security, satellite revisits period, natural resources management, climate change, disaster management, agriculture, and forest management, among many others.”

He highlighted GIS's role in educational administration through online classes, attendance tracking, and enrollment projections, as well as in healthcare for epidemiology, needs analysis, and service inventory.

“In security enforcement, GIS is beneficial for surveillance, intelligence gathering, smart barcodes, creating virtual boundaries, and crime spot identification’ he said.

The Inaugural Lecturer also pointed out that GIS ‘is also useful in election results transmission and analysis, voter registration, infrastructure planning, maintenance, business management through demographic and market analysis, and site selection.

He further called for the development of policies and regulations to support the use of GIS and protect privacy and security, while recommending integrating geospatial technology with artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and unmanned aircraft systems like drones. He also emphasised adequate support for research and development to enhance technology applications and collaboration with international organizations to share knowledge and best practices.

Prof. Ogunbadewa noted that the future of geospatial technology ‘is promising, with the potential to improve how global environmental challenges are addressed by providing a more coordinated, connected, informed, and sustainable context for optimizing decision-making processes and offering clear views without hindrance.’

Earlier, the Chairman of the event and Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, noted that inaugural lectures are opportunities for professors to share their research findings and ideas for the benefit of society and to propose solutions to societal needs. He acknowledged the Lecturer as an eminent scholar whose wealth of experience would undoubtedly benefit society.

AAUA Inaugural Lecture: Fasoranti Offers Strategies to Mitigate Rural Poverty

 AAUA Inaugural Lecture: Fasoranti Offers Strategies to Mitigate Rural Poverty

• Says Only Agricultural-Based Growth, Labour-Intensive Technology Can Reduce Poverty

Professor Mary Fasoranti, an expert in development economics, has advocated practicable approaches to redeeming Nigeria’s prevailing throes of poverty, stressing that, “Capital intensive and urban based growth cannot reduce poverty.  Only agricultural-based growth and labour-intensive technology have the capacity to reduce poverty.”

 

Prof. Fasoranti gave counsels on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, 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 that such efforts have yielded "no visible, lasting results."

 

She noted that, “The economic growth must occur on a consistent basis and such must address the needs of the poor, increase their access to basic services, employment, income generating opportunities and reliable market 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 emphasised the importance of inclusive economic growth. She stated, "Economic growth must occur on a consistent basis and such 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 professor also underscored the need for community-based poverty reduction programmes, 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 on 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.

AAUA Don Recommends Technology, Plant Species to Combat Pests

 AAUA Don Recommends Technology, Plant Species to Combat Pests

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.

AAUA Inaugural Lecture: Gbadamosi Raises Alarm on Dire Consequences of Deforestation, Seeks Synergy of Stakeholders to Prevent Looming Crisis

 AAUA Inaugural Lecture: Gbadamosi Raises Alarm on Dire Consequences of Deforestation, Seeks Synergy of Stakeholders to Prevent Looming Crisis

• Urges Govt. to Revive Moribund Paper Mills

The destruction of the earth’s natural habitat through unchecked human activities are destroying the global ecosystem and have brought the earth to the brink of unmitigated disaster that could lead to disastrous consequences for the globe and its inhabitants unless something serious is done urgently to stop deforestation.

This was the submission of a Professor of Silviculture and Plant Biotechnology, Alaba Gbadamosi, while delivering the 22nd Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. The Lecture was titled, The Earth’s Heating Mantle:  Forest to the Rescue.

Professor Gbadamosi's lecture emphasized the critical state of the global ecosystem, highlighting the imminent threat of unmitigated disaster unless immediate and concerted actions were taken to curb deforestation.

The professor, drawing attention to the interconnectedness of environmental health and global well-being, asserted that building a healthy economy or nation would be impossible in an unhealthy planet. He underlined that environmental degradation, particularly through deforestation, contributes significantly to climate change, biodiversity loss, and the emergence of new diseases.

The Lecturer, who is also the Dean of the Institution’s Faculty of agriculture, stressed that unless there are collaborative efforts among relevant agencies and stakeholders, along with a more rational use of natural resources, the alarming trend will persist.

The consequences of unchecked destruction of the earth’s forests and biodiversity, according to the Inaugural Lecturer, include global warming leading to flooding that threatens coastal cities, a rise in the earth’s temperature, and disastrous changes in climate and weather conditions resulting in drought and famine.

To address these looming crises, Prof. Gbadamosi proposed immediate measures, including a halt to deforestation activities, an increase in small-scale forest holdings and community forests, resuscitation of efficient forestry services, sustainable yield models, adequate funding, establishment of ecological zones, and public enlightenment on the dangers of indiscriminate bush burning.

He emphasized the crucial role of forests and trees in addressing environmental challenges, advocating for the maintenance and restoration of degraded lands, expansion of agroforestry, and the adoption of sustainable forest use practices, while highlighting the need to address the poverty index in tropical nations with vast forest estates.

He added that, “Forests and trees can play crucial roles in addressing these crises and moving towards sustainable economies, therefore, there must be urgent halt to deforestation activities, maintenance of forests, restoration of degraded lands and expansion of agroforestry and embracing sustainable use of forests. The poverty index in tropical nations with vast forest estates should be addressed; we cannot expect too much from a poor and hungry people as regards preservation of biodiversity and conservation of the forests.”

He noted as one of the factors fueling the farmers/herders clashes in Nigeria, the drying up of river basins in certain areas as seen in the case of Lake Chad River Basin, caused by the unreasonable use of the environment.

He said, “While there may seem to be an expansionist scheme in the herders/farmers clashes in Nigeria, the fact remains that the grazing and water resources available for nomadic cattle rearing have been limited by climate change and the business interest of herders have been threatened hence the continued conflicts and disagreements since the early 2000.”

Prof. Gbadamosi urged government at all levels to revive moribund paper mills across Nigeria. He said, “Governments at the national and state levels should form a synergy towards reviving the moribund paper mills scattered all over Nigeria and stop the shameful capital flight in importation of pulp and paper products.”

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, introducing the Inaugural Lecturer, emphasized the importance of Inaugural lectures as platforms for researchers to share the benefits of their work and offer recommendations for addressing current challenges. He praised Prof. Gbadamosi for his significant contributions to the University and society at large, both in academic and administrative roles.