KWASU HOLDS 6TH PROFESSOR MUSBAU AKANJI ANNUAL LECTURE
Inadequate research funding, weak infrastructure, brain drain, and poor academia-industry synergy have been identified as the major challenges confronting research development in Nigeria.
Professor Ebenezer Olatunde Farombi emphasised this at the 6th Musbau Akanji Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences lecture on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
In the lecture, themed “Harnessing Basic and Translational Research for Societal Gain,” the guest lecturer called for increased government investment in research, improved collaboration between universities and industries, as well as sustained support for innovative and translational research.
Basic and translational research, he maintained remain complementary pillars necessary for scientific advancement, innovation, and sustainable national development.
In his opening address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaykh-Luqman Jimoh, described the lecture theme as timely and relevant, noting that universities must continue to promote research-driven solutions to societal challenges.
Professor Jimoh who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Professor Olubukola Christianah Dada, said the annual lecture remained a worthy tribute to Emeritus Professor Musbau Adewumi Akanji for his outstanding contributions to scholarship, mentorship, and academic development.
In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Professor Olusola Oladele James, described the annual lecture series as a proud intellectual tradition of the Faculty and commended the contributions of Emeritus Professor Musbau Akanji to the growth of science education and research.
Professor James stated that the Faculty was committed to strengthening applied and translational research capable of addressing societal needs in areas such as healthcare delivery, food security, environmental management, and technological innovation.
He added that the Faculty had begun efforts towards reorienting its research focus through capacity building, interdisciplinary collaboration, and improved industry partnership.
The event was attended by principal officers of the university, deans, researchers, academic staff, students, and guests from other institutions.